Christmas Stakes on McLean’s wish list

Last-start Pakenham winner Tried And Tired runs for trainer Jarrod McLean at Caulfield.

Warrnambool horseman Jarrod McLean will have a foot in two camps when the Christmas Stakes is run at Caulfield.

In charge of Darren Weir’s Warrnambool base, McLean has overseen the preparation of Thermal Current and Stellar Collision ahead of Tuesday’s race while he has also had an acquaintance with Rock Forthe Ladies.

But his loudest cheer will be for Tried And Tired who races under the McLean stable banner.

“I hope one of them win but I’ll be giving a little bit more of cheer for Tried And Tired, especially if he looks like he’s a chance at any stage,” McLean said.

Tried And Tired is coming off a last-start victory at Pakenham over 1200m on December 9.

“There’s no improvement in him but he’s held his form and he’s in good order and hopefully he’s competitive,” McLean said.

McLean is expecting an improved showing from Stellar Collision after a first-up sixth behind Tried And Tired at Pakenham.

“He’s actually one of my favourite horses of Weiry’s that I’ve got,” McLean said.

“You’ll see a much better run from him than what he produced at Pakenham.

“He got back and made no impression and is better than that.”

While not in charge of Rock Forthe Ladies, McLean did see the gelding when he took Black Heart Bart to Weir’s Maldon property before his trip to Perth.

“He’s a good horse on his day but I would think he’d be improved by the run,” McLean said.

McLean says he is unsure whether Thermal Current will take his place as the Standish Handicap at Flemington on New Year’s Day is being considered.

Stayer Master Of Arts runs in the Lord Stakes (1700m), his first start since finishing third in the Adelaide Cup at Morphettville in March.

“He looks outstanding. I’ve never seen him look better,” McLean said.

McLean said Master Of Arts had a couple of issues after his last campaign and required a long break.

“He trialled really well at Terang on Thursday,” McLean said.

“We go to the races with no expectations but like good stayers he could pull out a good run fresh, so it wouldn’t shock.”