More than 220 youngsters still in contention for Blue Diamond

Second declarations have been taken for Victoria’s premier two-year-old race, the $2 million Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes.

A total of 221 juveniles remain entered following the latest deadline as preparations ramp up toward one of Melbourne’s key autumn features.

Ciaron Maher trains three of the four highest prizemoney earners still in contention, including Calamari Ring ($245,649), Tornado Valley ($229,145) and Golden Gift runner-up Spicy Miss ($190,000).

Gimcrack Stakes winner Shiki, prepared by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, also sits among the top four on prizemoney with $235,100 after winning at the Gold Coast last Saturday.

Anthony and Sam Freedman lead trainers at the second declaration stage with 29 entries, ahead of the Ben, Will and JD Hayes partnership with 19.

Chris Waller, who topped nominations when entries closed in November, has 17 runners remaining, while Maher has 16.

Snitzel and I Am Invincible are the most represented stallions with 15 entries each, followed by first-season sire Stay Inside with 12.

The Blue Diamond Stakes will be run at Caulfield on Saturday, February 21.