Sheza Alibi is set to tackle the 2,000-meter distance for the first time in her racing career when she competes in the Group 1 Might And Power Stakes at Caulfield on October 10. The four-year-old mare, trained by Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, will be piloted by her regular jockey Luke Nolen and faces a relatively small field of six runners.

The Might And Power Stakes, carrying a purse of A$1 million (approximately S$981,000), represents a significant step up in distance for Sheza Alibi, who has previously raced exclusively over 1,600 meters in 12 starts across Queensland, Melbourne, and Sydney. This longer distance test is expected to provide valuable insight for her connections regarding her stamina and potential suitability for extended trips in future races.

Following the Caulfield event, the mare is scheduled to return to a shorter distance for the Group 1 The Golden Eagle at Randwick on October 31, a race with a much larger prize pool of A$10 million. The Golden Eagle is contested over 1,500 meters, and Moody and Coleman hope the Might And Power will serve as a stepping stone without the need for an extended training program after her recent Group 1 victory.

Coleman expressed optimism about Sheza Alibi’s prospects over 2,000 meters, noting the mare’s strong recent form, including a win in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes at Flemington on September 12. She added that while the distance is uncharted ground for the horse, signs indicate the mare will handle the challenge well.

“Until they actually do it under race pressure, you always have a little question mark,” Coleman said, “but she has given us every indication that she’s going to appreciate it.” After the Might And Power, the intention is to step back to the 1,500-meter distance for the Golden Eagle.

Sheza Alibi already boasts a distinguished record, including victories in the Group 1 Doncaster Mile and Randwick Guineas, both over 1,600 meters. Coleman praised the mare’s temperament and competitiveness, describing her as a horse who trains professionally without showing excessive effort, conserving her best for race day.

Among Sheza Alibi’s five rivals in the Might And Power Stakes is Birdman, trained by Chris Waller, who is noted for his past Group 1 success over 2,000 meters in the Doomben Cup. Coleman acknowledged Birdman’s quality but emphasized that all contenders, including Land Legend, Torranzino, Kingswood, and Treasure Moment, are formidable opponents.

With the Might And Power Stakes offering a clear test of stamina ahead of the lucrative Golden Eagle, the race is expected to provide important guidance on Sheza Alibi’s future campaign planning.