Sprinting future for Almanzor 4YO

Phillip Stokes is confident The Mansman can make his mark in a changed role this preparation.The Pakenham trainer initially believed the son of Almanzor, who produced a dashing display to win first-up over 1200 metres at Sale, would be best suited to middle distance racing. “Last prep, we thought he’s by Almanzor and a stayer, but I feel he might be best at 1200 to 1400 metres and we’ll keep him fresh,” Stokes said. “He’ll progress through to city grade.”The Mansman has performed up to 2000 metres last season and posted a frustrating five runner-up finishes from seven outings before his overdue breakthrough victory.Gelded since last racing, The Mansman settled back in the field off a wide gate at Sale before improving out wide across the top and let down strongly in the straight to reel in his rivals.“There was a bit of concern about the barrier, but he switched off and we got a cosy run into it and he went through his gears nicely,” successful rider Daniel Stackhouse said.The Mansman was offered by Sledmere Stud on behalf of breeder Waikato Stud at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale where he was sold to DGR Thoroughbred Services and Stokes for A$330,000 with the Matamata farm remaining in the ownership group.He out of the Savabeel mare Hurry, a three-quarter sister to the late multiple Group 1 winner and successful sire Sacred Falls.