Moloney Back On Stingray At Valley
- Wednesday, 30 July 2014 07:59
Trainer John Moloney could help his nephew make a perfect return to the saddle when they team up at Moonee Valley on Saturday.
Moloney has three-year-old Stingray resuming in Saturday's Mitchelton Wines Handicap (1000m), a race that will coincide with apprentice Patrick Moloney's first ride back from injury.
The junior rider has not competed in a race since he broke both his ankles in a fall at Flemington in early April.
Stingray is the first of two Moonee Valley bookings for the apprentice.
The other is Oriental Ruby who is trained by his father Gerard.
"He is back in the saddle, it's a new season and it's a pretty exciting time for him," John Moloney said.
Stingray won two of his six starts during his juvenile season and Patrick Moloney was aboard for both.
The colt was tested in Listed company on three occasions with his best result a fourth in the Debutants Stakes at his first start in October.
The son of Kaphero won a recent 760m barrier trial at Cranbourne and John Moloney says the colt is in good order for his new season return.
"Admittedly it wasn't in quick time but he still trialled nicely at Cranbourne," Moloney said.
Stingray has drawn barrier 13 and the trainer said he would have to consider his options from the wide gate.
Patrick Moloney pushed himself hard through his rehabilitation from injury which has allowed him to return sooner than originally expected.
"I couldn't have my body any better prepared for the races," he said.
