A review of the meeting held at Doomben on Wednesday, September 3.
Race 1
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The debutant Arctic Echo did everything right to launch her career in the best possible way.
The filly is a full sister to Ascendant, who Baldwin also trained with some success.
“Ascendant won three-in-a-row as a two-year old,” said Baldwin, “but then never raced well again.
“This filly didn’t race as a two-year-old. Hopefully that will make the difference and this one can go on with it,” added Baldwin.
Jockey Andrew Spinks gave his report back.
“She jumped well. I didn’t chase her at all. I just let her get there in her own time,” said Spinks.
“They came at her and she picked up. They came at her again and she picked up again.
“She could have gone on like that all day. She was always going to win but was never going to win by more than a neck.” concluded Spinks.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Passing the 300m, Arctic Echo (A. Spinks) shifted out to improve and made contact with Modern Eyes (S. Drake), which was inclined to shift in under pressure. A. Spinks, rider of Arctic Echo, was advised to exercise more care. Near the 100m, Tango Storm had to be checked after improving on to the heels of the tiring Modern Eyes. Dodge County was caught 3 wide in the early stages and was obliged to race 3 wide throughout.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Punters could do a lot worse than follow this winner, the Alan Bailey trained Judge Me Not.
Bailey was typically laid back and unassuming with his comments.
“He’s got nice potential,” said Bailey. “He’s still a bit of a big baby and we haven’t done much with him.
“He was hitting the line well and he will get better with experience. Also he’ll be good when getting up to 1400m and a mile.”
The pace of the race was on the slow side.
“They just stood there, then sprinted. Good win,” remarked jockey Glenn Colless.
Want a line on some potential?
Judge Me Not is by the all conquering Lonhro. He is out of the Kinski mare, Miss Guilty who also gave us Mr Innocent, a Doomben 10 000 winner.
Watch this one!
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Truthful (B. El-Issa) was caught 3 wide after the start and was obliged to race 3 wide throughout.After leaving the 900m, Mean Machine (S. Scriven) shifted out when racing ungenerously at the heels of Downsize (L. Rolls) and made contact with Truthful (B. El-Issa). Passing the 800m, Manaudou got its head up and raced ungenerously for some distance. As a result of the slow pace rounding the first turn, Shaquino (A. Spinks) was inclined to race ungenerously. Stewards questioned jockey A. Coombe in relation to the disappointing performance of Manaudou. A. Coome stated that the horse was inclined to over-race in the early stages and raced ungenerously for some distance. He added that he attributed the disappointing performance to the horse's waywardness and untrue running today. Trainer K. Wood felt that Manaudou may not have been comfortable today racing in blinkers, adding that he would remove that gear. The explanations were noted.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The well supported Worth Doing won a spirited battle with the outsider Faunius in the final chase to the line to claim his first victory at the fourth time of asking.
Worth Doing showed to good advantage first time out back in January 2007 but then did not reappear until eighteen months later.
What was the reason for the long layoff?
“He had an operation to remove bone chips,” answered trainer Brian Gentle.
“He was also ‘sold’ to Korea during that time, but that deal fell through so he’s career was in limbo for about four months. They can’t come back for him because he is too old to go to Korea now."
Worth Doing was hitting the line well, which suggested he might enjoy a longer trip.
“I actually scratched him from a 1350m race yesterday,” continued Gentle. “He’s been trained for 1350m but I made the decision to go for this race in the end, so he was doing well here.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Leaving the 900m, Moxie Mulroy (C. Whiteley) commenced to race ungenerously and became unbalanced when racing in restricted room inside Shealma (A. Spinks). Moxie Mulroy continued to race ungenerously and was inclined to lay out rounding the turn near the 800m. Also passing the 800m, Unapred (J. Byrne), when 3 wide, hung in and raced ungenerously, causing Shealma (A. Spinks) to be tightened and taken in on to Moxie Mulroy, which was placed in restricted room for some distance despite racing ungenerously. Near the 700m, Justin Case (C. Reith) had to be checked when it struck the hind quarters of I'montop (E. Wilkinson) as a result of Moxie Mulroy (C. Whiteley), which was racing ungenerously on the rails and hanging out.C. Reith, rider of Justin Case, pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding, in that near the 350m, he permitted his mount to shift out when insufficiently clear of I'montop, resulting in that horse having to be checked. C. Reith was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 7 meetings, to commence at midnight, 7 September, and to expire at midnight, 19 September.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
This will go down as a race filled with controversy due the tearaway tactics employed by jockey El-Issa on Miss Twist and the subsequent exchange which occurred between the trainer and rider of Miss Twist when the luckless mare was unsaddled.
A stewards inquiry has still to be completed into both the handling of Miss Twist and the conduct of her trainer and jockey after the event. (See Stewards Report Extract).
The race went to the Maryann Thexton trained Falzig.
“I nearly had a heart attack,” said Thexton.
“Why?” asked jockey Jason Holder.
“I thought the leader was going to pinch this,” answered Thexton.
“That’s why I went a bit before the turn,” said Holder. “I thought I needed to get on with it. But then when I got to the front I thought, I’m here too soon.”
“Terrific ride. Well-judged,” was Thexton’s final response as it all ended well for Falzig’s connections with the mare comfortably claiming the fifth win of her career.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Passing the 300m, Shobelle (G. Colless) attempted to shift out from behind the tiring Miss Twist and attempted to take a run to the inside of Telestah La Vistah (A. Spinks) where there was not fully sufficient room and as a result had to be checked when coming into contact with Teleshah La Vista (A. Spinks) and then shifting in, making heavy contact with Miss Twist.Key To Happiness was held up for clear running rounding the home turn and in the early stages of the straight.Stewards opened an inquiry into the handling of Miss Twist. Evidence was taken from jockey B. El-Issa, trainer Mr J. Walk and owner Mr H. Hayes. After taking some initial evidence from the connections and B. El-Issa, the inquiry was adjourned at the request of B. El-Issa. The inquiry will continue at 10 am on Friday, 5 September 2008 at the offices of Queensland Racing. Stewards also intend to interview trainer J. Walk and jockey B. El-Issa in relation to their conduct in the saddling enclosure following the running of the race.
A post-race veterinary examination of Telestah La Vistah revealed the mare had lost its off hind plate in running and had sustained a laceration to the off hind fetlock.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Another eventful race with the winner Papal Joy surviving a dangerous moment on the turn before producing a strong, determined run in the home stretch to land a well judged win under the guidance of jockey Paul Hammersley.
“She came down right on her nose at her last start,” volunteered trainer Brian Wakefield. “It happened soon after they jumped. She ripped a shoe right off in the incident.
“I was going to give her a freshener after that,” continued Wakefield. “But on her work I had to think that she was alright.
"She worked so well so I stepped her up to a new challenge.
“I’ve always thought she would go 1600m, but there was only one way to find out.”
The run proved Wakefield’s judgement to be spot on as Papal Joy appeared to relish the longer trip.
Jockey Paul Hammersley takes up the story.
“She didn’t have the best of starts and I wasn’t going to hunt her up,” said Hammersley. “I decided to try and ride her to get the distance and ride her for a bit of luck.”
The luck aspect nearly backfired as Papal Joy almost came to grief shortly before entering the home straight, just as the field was asked to quicken.
Zatano was racing along the inside rail when she became tightened for galloping room by the movement of horses on her outside.
She was turned sideways and then moved sharply away from the rail forcing those travelling behind her, including Papal Joy, to take evasive action.
“It was a scary moment,” said Hammersley.
“You weren't half as scared as I was,” countered Wakefield. “I thought this was just another way to lose a race.”
But Hammersley’s instinctive move wider and his ability to keep his mount balanced and her mind on the job eventually carried the day and earned Wakefield a return to the winners’ enclosure.
“It’s been a while coming,” said Wakefield, obviously happy to be there.
"She looks like she may have a future. I hope I can stay on her," was Hammersley's parting shot.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
As J. Byrne was to be overweight, M. Heagney was substituted as the rider of Bel Harbour. Following an explanation no penalty was imposed.Papal Joy (P. Hammersley) and Deputation (R. Wiggins) were both severely checked as a result of Zatano being interfered with, and Bel Harbour (M. Heagney) was forced wider as a result of Papal Joy being checked. Lodging (E. Wilkinson), Rollins (S. Seamer) and Rossies Hero (A. Taylor) were also inconvenienced when Deputation was checked. Near the 200m, Deputation (R. Wiggins) had to be steadied when crowded for room between Bel Harbour (M. Heagney) and Rollins (S. Seamer), which shifted out. Rollins was held up for clear running until after leaving the 300m.S. Scriven, rider of Latrobe, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that near the 400m he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of Rossies Hero (A. Taylor), which resulted in Rossies Hero being taken in on to Shake The Lantern (A. Spinks), which in turn was taken in on to Zatano (C. Reith) and as a result Zatano had to be severely checked. S. Scriven was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 8 meetings, to commence at midnight, 6 September, and to expire at midnight, 19 September 2008.A post-race veterinary examination of Bentley Blue, which finished a considerable distance from the remainder of the field, revealed the gelding to be suffering from cardiac arrhythmia. Trainer Mr H. Wilson was advised that he must produce a veterinary clearance, including the results of an ECG for Bentley Blue, and that the gelding must trial satisfactorily prior to its next race start.
Race 6
WINNER FEEDBACK:
“He’s just so relaxed. It’s so nice working with such a relaxed horse.
“Mind you, he is built like a Sherman Tank so it is probably just as well he’s relaxed. Calmness and power. Now that’s a pretty good combination.”
The speaker was trainer Lawrie Mayfield-Smith.
His subject was his latest winner, the five-year-old Reenact gelding, Shooting Scene.
Shooting Scene was making it two in a row here.
“He should have won his last three,” said Mayfield-Smith.
“I know we all say that but he was genuinely unlucky two runs back.”
Not that the strike-rate is suffering too much because of that hiccup.
Shooting Scene has now on four of the seven starts he has had for the Mayfield-Smith stable and has been placed on two other occasions.
He does seem to be improving with each passing run and should be well worth a second glance again next time out.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Stewards took possession of a syringe which was found in the race day bag of trainer M. Griffith. After taking evidence from trainer's representative Mrs A. Griffith, the inquiry was adjourned until 9.30 am at the offices of Queensland Racing on Friday, 5 September.
Chicken Bob (R. McMahon) was held up rounding the home turn and in the early stages of the straight.Stewards opened an inquiry into R. McMahon's handling of Chicken Bob, particularly in the early stages. After taking some evidence, the matter was adjourned to 11 am on Thursday, 4 September 2008.
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Jim Atkins is a legend in his own life-time.
Everybody is pleased when Atkins has a winner, as they were when Bossie Boy returned to winning form under an ever-competent ride from Jason Holder.
Holder, who won earlier on Falzig, was the only rider to have a double success at the meeting.
“He’s been having bad luck at the barriers this fellow,” said Atkins. “So I scratched him before.
“He got it again today (a bad barrier) and I was going to scratch him again. Then I though I might as well let him run and take his chances … and he got there.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Bravestofthebrave (S. Scriven) and Bossie Boy (J. Holder) brushed on jumping away. Defend The Hill (D. Barron) and Albert Cadabra (A. Coome) were both held up in the straight until leaving the 200m. Bravestofthebrave (S. Scriven) was inclined to shift out under pressure and brushed Bossie Boy (J. Holder) approaching the finishing line. Stitch It bled during the event. As this was the second occasion on which the horse has bled, Stitch It will now incur a lifetime bar from racing.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Rob Heathcote trained On The Fridge scored in untroubled fashion in the last to keep her unbeaten record intact.
On The Fridge is a five-year-old who has only had four starts, which does tell you something.
“She’s not the soundest of mares,” confirmed Heathcote. “She’s only had four runs because I’ve had to look after her.
“I brought her back in distance (from 1400m to 1200m) as she was running fresh (having been off the track for five months).
“I must say she has surprised me a touch,” continued Heathcote. “I didn’t think she was that far forward.
“She might be a little better than I thought she was.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Kryptelon (P. Hammersley) shifted out on straightening in an endeavour to improve around the heels of Sleek Repeat (M. Paget) and as a result made contact with Shezasmith. Shezasmith raced wide throughout.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
ALL THE ACTION FROM IPSWICH
A review of the meeting held at Ipswich on September 2.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Come Said The Boy had it all his own way in the opening event, striding away to a clear cut victory.
It was the three-year-old’s sixth start and came on the back of some useful Saturday, city form where Come Said The Boy had put in creditable efforts behind the likes of Meet George and Jazz Heart.
“He was entered at Doomben and he probably would have run a good race there ... maybe finished fourth or fifth. But I wanted to get this win behind him, so we came here instead,” explained trainer Paul Nolen (Jnr).
“He’s a big strong horse,” continued Nolen. “You look at the size of him and it’s hard to believe he was still a two-year-old only weeks ago. But although he is big and strong, he is still immature.
“I like the El Moxie breed. I’ve had some success with them.
“I have had some trouble with their legs though, but ability-wise at least you know you have something to work with.
“I guess any trainer would rather have something with ability with bad legs to look after, than have a horse with good legs and no ability.”
Jockey Tony Pattillo added his assessment.
“He just had too much on them (the opposition),” said Pattillo.
“He didn’t beat a great class of runner but, having said that all you can do is win and this run should have done him the world of good.
“He should develop into a nice horse later.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
S. Essery trainer of Reenact Danza which was uncompetitive was advised that the gelding must trial to the satisfaction of stewards prior to the horse racing again. A post race veterinary examination of Reenact Danza failed to reveal any abnormality
Race 2:
Slinky Chelle turned around her form to claim the first success of her career in her seventh start.
The mare was particularly disappointing last time over the same track and distance but she showed a new lease of life here, even easily taking out of play the disadvantage of racing from the extreme outside draw.
Trainer Desleigh Forster knew exactly which factor made the difference.
“She jumped away today,” said Forster. “She hasn’t been jumping well at all.
“We were always going to ride her aggressively. The key was the start and getting her across from the barrier.”
Although Slinky Chelle wasn’t stopping at the line, Forster has no immediate plans to step her up in distance.
“No, for the moment we are going to stick to the 1350m trip and she how she develops,” said Forster.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Crackinghorseluck (S. Scriven) jumped out at the start taking Back A Winner (S. Drake) out onto Astrolight ( T. Pannell). Near the 350m Purple Sequal was held up for clear running when awkwardly placed near the heels of Spanish Sister (App B. Evans).
Race 3:
The Des Wozencroft trained See Me Thru arrived with a late flourish under the strong urgings of jockey Sheree Drake to land his first career success in the third run of this preparation.
The six-year-old has only six runs behind his name.
Wozencroft explains why the gelding is so lightly raced.
“Firstly, he was only broken in as a four-year-old,” explained Wozencroft. “Then EI.
“I don’t know if you remember when they called off a meeting at Ipswich about twenty minutes before the first race because of an EI scare, but I was walking down that path into the mounting yard with this horse when they called it off.
“I had to turn around and walk away again while his, and every other horse's career was put on hold.
“He had a few other minor problems. We just had to patient.
“He’s been a different horse this preparation,” continued Wozencroft. “He’s got a better action. He ran third first-up and then went to the Gold Coast.
“You can forget that run. He had a wide barrier and then was pushed even wider on the turn. Now there’s this win.
“It’s nice when things are moving forward. Normally they go the other way.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
A pre-race veterinary examination of Elite General, which has not raced for a lengthy period of time, passed the gelding fit to start. The start was delayed when Count De Loir was reluctant to proceed to the barriers. The start was further delayed when R. Goltz the rider of Rosebrn required medical attention after his leg made contact with the partition of the barrier stalls when the horse was being loaded. A short distance after the start Count De Loir commenced to buck dislodging its rider App J. Wood. Trainer B. Smith was advised the horse must trial to the satisfaction of stewards on 2 occasions before its next start. Apogee (R. McMahon) jumped in at the start making heaving contact with American Gangster (App S. Holcombe) which then shifted in and had to be restrained off the heels of Rosebrn (R. Goltz). Rosebrn had to be steadied at the start when tightened for room between Elite General (App L. Dittman) which shifted in and Cubby House (W. Clasohm) which was taken out by Palace Party (M. Paget). Leaving the 800m the riderless Count De Loir shifted wider on the track resulting in Mr Daybreak (K. Wharton), Bay Minstrel (M. Heagney) and Cubby House all having to be checked. Tentulari Kakisaya which was following was hampered as a consequence. American Gangster was held up and unable to improve rounding the home turn and was again unable to establish clear running over the concluding stages of the event. See Me Thru (S. Drake) was inclined to lay out under pressure in the straight.
When questioned regarding the seemingly improved performance of See Me Thru today as compared to its previous start at the Gold Coast on 23 August 2008 trainer D. Wozencroft explained that the horse had been trapped wide on the track from an outside barrier and upon straightening on that occasion was well back in the field. He stated that in his opinion the horse made up good ground in the straight considering the race was only 900m. Stewards noted his explanation.
Race 4:
Trainer Noel Doyle was very satisfied with the win of Periander, who made no mistake in the run home after being offered a rails hugging opportunity at the top of the straight.
Doyle’s satisfaction was entirely understandable, given the route that Periander’s career has followed on his way to finding a place in the winners’ enclosure.
“He was injured as a two-year-old,” said Doyle. “There’s a medical name for the injury, which I can’t think of now, but basically he displaced his hip.
“The experts advised that he be put down at the time, but we thought we knew what we were doing so we decided to give him all the time he needed to heal. He did get better and this is the result!
“We did geld him because of his attitude,” continued Doyle. “He was getting a bit aggressive.”
The good part of that aggressive nature remains though, because once Periander had gained the advantage, he stubbornly refused to relent, and fought on for a well-earned win.
“When the rail run opened up it did make it easier,” acknowledged Doyle, “but I think he would have won anyway.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Hell Week (A. Spinks) and Fasciti (J. Bowditch) raced wide for the majority. Saltram Dream commenced to hang out leaving the 800m and did so until entering the home straight. W. Lawson trainer of Saltram Dream was advised that an official warning would now be placed against the filly's racing manners. Near the 100m Sam’s Crossing and Vistula Belle (K. Wharton) made contact. A post race veterinary examination of All Show (J. Byrne) which hung out throughout the event revealed the mare to have a cheek ulcer on the near side. Trainer S. Dwyer was advised that he must produce a veterinary certificate of fitness before All Show again races.
Race 5:
Brosnan’s Gold carried a host of gear chances going into this race. The blinkers were off again. The bits (Norton) were off again. The pacifiers were on for the first time. The tongue control bit was on again.
Somewhere in that mix there was a winning formula as Brosnan’s Gold shone on the day, proving to be too hot for his rivals to handle.
“He has always over-raced,” explained trainer Ross Coveney. “He led last time as well but just got run down.
“He settled much better this time.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ashma’s Gold which became fractious in the barrier stalls was examined by the Club's veterinary surgeon and passed fit to start. Refined Desert (W. Clasohm) shifted in at the start and bumped Rocket Sprocket (M. Heagney). Irresisteibelle (App L. Rolls) was slow to begin. Intrepid Journey (G. Baker) over-raced in the early stages. Saba San (J. Bowditch) raced wide in the early stages. Ashma’s Gold (App B. Evans) raced ungenerously when racing wide in the early stages. Near the 100m Shanamin (App C. Isdale) and Refined Desert made contact on several occasions.
Race 6:
The Wayne Lawson trained Queen Of Danes scored her second successive win under a competent ride by Josh Jones.
“How’s this for a true racing story,” offered Lawson.
“Would you believe that Queen Of Danes and Heavenly Glow once finished alongside each other in a two-year-old Maiden at Tamworth?
Neither horse won. Queen Of Danes led and got tired. They must have finished something like fourth and fifth, but they finished alongside each other.
“No here we are winning a Class 1, and Heavenly Glow is winning Group 1’s.
But, given that Queen Of Danes has had her share of problems, her return to the winners’ enclosure was still a fair prize.
“She was very sick after EI,” confirmed Lawson.
“I took her to Beaudesert for her first run this prep,” said Lawson. “I thought she would win there. She got beat.”
Queen Of Danes set that record straight with a win at Beaudesert when she next returned to the country track, and she has now backed up with this second successive victory, which suggests she is making fair progress.
“She’s got a fair strike-rate and she will go 1200m,” said Lawson. “So hopefully there is more to come.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
A post race veterinary examination of In Harmony revealed the filly to have sustained a laceration to the off-fore leg and to be exhibiting signs of a cough
Race 7:
“I’ve had some good horses. This one is the best I’ve had.”
Trainer Harry Richardson was giving his view on the prospects of Tetra after the four-year-old gelding had outgunned his opposition one more time to secure an impressive hat trick.
“I’ve only had him for three starts,””said Richardson. “The first time I saw him I told the owners this was going to a very good horse.
“He had a couple of barrier trials. He bolted in. Then he’s run in three races and won them all – and he’s still got to hit his straps.
“He’ll go straight to a city midweek meeting now,” continued Richardson. “I can’t see him losing there. Then it will be on to a city, Saturday meeting.”
Jockey Christian Reith gave a more clinical view of his winner.
“He’s going through the grades really nicely,” said Reith. “He’s been correctly stepped up slowly in distance.
“He travels good. He lets down good.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Running Bear (S. Scriven) was unable to obtain clear running over the concluding stages.
Race 8:
Whimpy turned in one of the top performances at the meeting, claiming back to back successes when landing his second win from only three starts.
Jockey Shane Scriven, who is as good a judge of racing talent as any, gave the grey gelding’s effort a big thumbs-up after the race.
“Glenn (trainer Glenn Clunes) said he had improved,” said Scriven.
“I just gave him one smack in the straight and he quickly put them (the opposition) to rest.
“I really liked his win at Coloundra. I really liked it,” repeated Scriven, emphasising the point.
“This was a big step up for him actually, but he did it just as well. He had something in hand. He’s going to win some nice races,” concluded Scriven.
Trainer Glenn Clunes was obviously happy with the rate of progress that Whimpy has been displaying.
“He did win a couple of barrier trials before his first win,” said Clunes. “Now he has posted the two wins.”
I suggested it looks like there could be better things to come.
“We live in hope,” was Clunes’ reply.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Amerrybridge (App C. Isdale) was inclined to hang in during the early stages of the straight and had to be steadied off the heels of Whimpy (S. Scriven). Amerrybridge, What Is This (N. Day) and Malesia (R. McMahon) all raced wide for the majority.When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of Easy Silence App J. Jones stated that the mare travelled well to a point near the home turn at which stage he placed the mare under pressure. He explained that in doing so Easy Silence failed to respond to his riding and compounded shortly after. App J. Jones further stated that in his opinion the mare was very disappointing. Trainer of Easy Silence S. Lee reported that he was disappointed with the mare's performance and advised that the mare had worked very well leading up to today's event and could only offer that the mare had finished second up at its first preparation as an excuse for today's performance. His explanation was noted. Trainer S. Lee undertook to advise stewards of anything that may come to light in the days following that may explain the mare's performance today. A post race veterinary examination of Easy Silence failed to reveal any abnormality.
Race 9:
The Rob Heathcote trained Madame Chanel rounded off the day with an emphatic win.
The victory went some way towards easing the pain of the defeat she suffered last time out, over the same track and distance, when she was just touched off in the final stride.
The barrier draw appeared to be a difficulty here.
“It was either go back from the draw , or go forward,” explained Heathcote. “There was none of this ‘let’s see what happens business’. We decided to go back.”
That decision paid dividends as Madame Chanel responded to the quiet ride of Brent Evans and put her best hoof forward when it mattered most, finishing strongly enough to secure the third win of her career.
“You know what some of these mares are like when they find their form. They hold their form,” said Heathcote.
“That’s what she is doing.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Madame Chanel (App B. Evans) threw its head in the air when being restrained shortly after the start. Snow Dane (S. Galloway) laid in under pressure in the straight.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Come Said The Boy had it all his own way in the opening event, striding away to a clear cut victory.
It was the three-year-old’s sixth start and came on the back of some useful Saturday, city form where Come Said The Boy had put in creditable efforts behind the likes of Meet George and Jazz Heart.
“He was entered at Doomben and he probably would have run a good race there ... maybe finished fourth or fifth. But I wanted to get this win behind him, so we came here instead,” explained trainer Paul Nolen (Jnr).
“He’s a big strong horse,” continued Nolen. “You look at the size of him and it’s hard to believe he was still a two-year-old only weeks ago. But although he is big and strong, he is still immature.
“I like the El Moxie breed. I’ve had some success with them.
“I have had some trouble with their legs though, but ability-wise at least you know you have something to work with.
“I guess any trainer would rather have something with ability with bad legs to look after, than have a horse with good legs and no ability.”
Jockey Tony Pattillo added his assessment.
“He just had too much on them (the opposition),” said Pattillo.
“He didn’t beat a great class of runner but, having said that all you can do is win and this run should have done him the world of good.
“He should develop into a nice horse later.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
S. Essery trainer of Reenact Danza which was uncompetitive was advised that the gelding must trial to the satisfaction of stewards prior to the horse racing again. A post race veterinary examination of Reenact Danza failed to reveal any abnormality
Race 2:
Slinky Chelle turned around her form to claim the first success of her career in her seventh start.
The mare was particularly disappointing last time over the same track and distance but she showed a new lease of life here, even easily taking out of play the disadvantage of racing from the extreme outside draw.
Trainer Desleigh Forster knew exactly which factor made the difference.
“She jumped away today,” said Forster. “She hasn’t been jumping well at all.
“We were always going to ride her aggressively. The key was the start and getting her across from the barrier.”
Although Slinky Chelle wasn’t stopping at the line, Forster has no immediate plans to step her up in distance.
“No, for the moment we are going to stick to the 1350m trip and she how she develops,” said Forster.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Crackinghorseluck (S. Scriven) jumped out at the start taking Back A Winner (S. Drake) out onto Astrolight ( T. Pannell). Near the 350m Purple Sequal was held up for clear running when awkwardly placed near the heels of Spanish Sister (App B. Evans).
Race 3:
The Des Wozencroft trained See Me Thru arrived with a late flourish under the strong urgings of jockey Sheree Drake to land his first career success in the third run of this preparation.
The six-year-old has only six runs behind his name.
Wozencroft explains why the gelding is so lightly raced.
“Firstly, he was only broken in as a four-year-old,” explained Wozencroft. “Then EI.
“I don’t know if you remember when they called off a meeting at Ipswich about twenty minutes before the first race because of an EI scare, but I was walking down that path into the mounting yard with this horse when they called it off.
“I had to turn around and walk away again while his, and every other horse's career was put on hold.
“He had a few other minor problems. We just had to patient.
“He’s been a different horse this preparation,” continued Wozencroft. “He’s got a better action. He ran third first-up and then went to the Gold Coast.
“You can forget that run. He had a wide barrier and then was pushed even wider on the turn. Now there’s this win.
“It’s nice when things are moving forward. Normally they go the other way.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
A pre-race veterinary examination of Elite General, which has not raced for a lengthy period of time, passed the gelding fit to start. The start was delayed when Count De Loir was reluctant to proceed to the barriers. The start was further delayed when R. Goltz the rider of Rosebrn required medical attention after his leg made contact with the partition of the barrier stalls when the horse was being loaded. A short distance after the start Count De Loir commenced to buck dislodging its rider App J. Wood. Trainer B. Smith was advised the horse must trial to the satisfaction of stewards on 2 occasions before its next start. Apogee (R. McMahon) jumped in at the start making heaving contact with American Gangster (App S. Holcombe) which then shifted in and had to be restrained off the heels of Rosebrn (R. Goltz). Rosebrn had to be steadied at the start when tightened for room between Elite General (App L. Dittman) which shifted in and Cubby House (W. Clasohm) which was taken out by Palace Party (M. Paget). Leaving the 800m the riderless Count De Loir shifted wider on the track resulting in Mr Daybreak (K. Wharton), Bay Minstrel (M. Heagney) and Cubby House all having to be checked. Tentulari Kakisaya which was following was hampered as a consequence. American Gangster was held up and unable to improve rounding the home turn and was again unable to establish clear running over the concluding stages of the event. See Me Thru (S. Drake) was inclined to lay out under pressure in the straight.
When questioned regarding the seemingly improved performance of See Me Thru today as compared to its previous start at the Gold Coast on 23 August 2008 trainer D. Wozencroft explained that the horse had been trapped wide on the track from an outside barrier and upon straightening on that occasion was well back in the field. He stated that in his opinion the horse made up good ground in the straight considering the race was only 900m. Stewards noted his explanation.
Race 4:
Trainer Noel Doyle was very satisfied with the win of Periander, who made no mistake in the run home after being offered a rails hugging opportunity at the top of the straight.
Doyle’s satisfaction was entirely understandable, given the route that Periander’s career has followed on his way to finding a place in the winners’ enclosure.
“He was injured as a two-year-old,” said Doyle. “There’s a medical name for the injury, which I can’t think of now, but basically he displaced his hip.
“The experts advised that he be put down at the time, but we thought we knew what we were doing so we decided to give him all the time he needed to heal. He did get better and this is the result!
“We did geld him because of his attitude,” continued Doyle. “He was getting a bit aggressive.”
The good part of that aggressive nature remains though, because once Periander had gained the advantage, he stubbornly refused to relent, and fought on for a well-earned win.
“When the rail run opened up it did make it easier,” acknowledged Doyle, “but I think he would have won anyway.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Hell Week (A. Spinks) and Fasciti (J. Bowditch) raced wide for the majority. Saltram Dream commenced to hang out leaving the 800m and did so until entering the home straight. W. Lawson trainer of Saltram Dream was advised that an official warning would now be placed against the filly's racing manners. Near the 100m Sam’s Crossing and Vistula Belle (K. Wharton) made contact. A post race veterinary examination of All Show (J. Byrne) which hung out throughout the event revealed the mare to have a cheek ulcer on the near side. Trainer S. Dwyer was advised that he must produce a veterinary certificate of fitness before All Show again races.
Race 5:
Brosnan’s Gold carried a host of gear chances going into this race. The blinkers were off again. The bits (Norton) were off again. The pacifiers were on for the first time. The tongue control bit was on again.
Somewhere in that mix there was a winning formula as Brosnan’s Gold shone on the day, proving to be too hot for his rivals to handle.
“He has always over-raced,” explained trainer Ross Coveney. “He led last time as well but just got run down.
“He settled much better this time.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ashma’s Gold which became fractious in the barrier stalls was examined by the Club's veterinary surgeon and passed fit to start. Refined Desert (W. Clasohm) shifted in at the start and bumped Rocket Sprocket (M. Heagney). Irresisteibelle (App L. Rolls) was slow to begin. Intrepid Journey (G. Baker) over-raced in the early stages. Saba San (J. Bowditch) raced wide in the early stages. Ashma’s Gold (App B. Evans) raced ungenerously when racing wide in the early stages. Near the 100m Shanamin (App C. Isdale) and Refined Desert made contact on several occasions.
Race 6:
The Wayne Lawson trained Queen Of Danes scored her second successive win under a competent ride by Josh Jones.
“How’s this for a true racing story,” offered Lawson.
“Would you believe that Queen Of Danes and Heavenly Glow once finished alongside each other in a two-year-old Maiden at Tamworth?
Neither horse won. Queen Of Danes led and got tired. They must have finished something like fourth and fifth, but they finished alongside each other.
“No here we are winning a Class 1, and Heavenly Glow is winning Group 1’s.
But, given that Queen Of Danes has had her share of problems, her return to the winners’ enclosure was still a fair prize.
“She was very sick after EI,” confirmed Lawson.
“I took her to Beaudesert for her first run this prep,” said Lawson. “I thought she would win there. She got beat.”
Queen Of Danes set that record straight with a win at Beaudesert when she next returned to the country track, and she has now backed up with this second successive victory, which suggests she is making fair progress.
“She’s got a fair strike-rate and she will go 1200m,” said Lawson. “So hopefully there is more to come.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
A post race veterinary examination of In Harmony revealed the filly to have sustained a laceration to the off-fore leg and to be exhibiting signs of a cough
Race 7:
“I’ve had some good horses. This one is the best I’ve had.”
Trainer Harry Richardson was giving his view on the prospects of Tetra after the four-year-old gelding had outgunned his opposition one more time to secure an impressive hat trick.
“I’ve only had him for three starts,””said Richardson. “The first time I saw him I told the owners this was going to a very good horse.
“He had a couple of barrier trials. He bolted in. Then he’s run in three races and won them all – and he’s still got to hit his straps.
“He’ll go straight to a city midweek meeting now,” continued Richardson. “I can’t see him losing there. Then it will be on to a city, Saturday meeting.”
Jockey Christian Reith gave a more clinical view of his winner.
“He’s going through the grades really nicely,” said Reith. “He’s been correctly stepped up slowly in distance.
“He travels good. He lets down good.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Running Bear (S. Scriven) was unable to obtain clear running over the concluding stages.
Race 8:
Whimpy turned in one of the top performances at the meeting, claiming back to back successes when landing his second win from only three starts.
Jockey Shane Scriven, who is as good a judge of racing talent as any, gave the grey gelding’s effort a big thumbs-up after the race.
“Glenn (trainer Glenn Clunes) said he had improved,” said Scriven.
“I just gave him one smack in the straight and he quickly put them (the opposition) to rest.
“I really liked his win at Coloundra. I really liked it,” repeated Scriven, emphasising the point.
“This was a big step up for him actually, but he did it just as well. He had something in hand. He’s going to win some nice races,” concluded Scriven.
Trainer Glenn Clunes was obviously happy with the rate of progress that Whimpy has been displaying.
“He did win a couple of barrier trials before his first win,” said Clunes. “Now he has posted the two wins.”
I suggested it looks like there could be better things to come.
“We live in hope,” was Clunes’ reply.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Amerrybridge (App C. Isdale) was inclined to hang in during the early stages of the straight and had to be steadied off the heels of Whimpy (S. Scriven). Amerrybridge, What Is This (N. Day) and Malesia (R. McMahon) all raced wide for the majority.When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of Easy Silence App J. Jones stated that the mare travelled well to a point near the home turn at which stage he placed the mare under pressure. He explained that in doing so Easy Silence failed to respond to his riding and compounded shortly after. App J. Jones further stated that in his opinion the mare was very disappointing. Trainer of Easy Silence S. Lee reported that he was disappointed with the mare's performance and advised that the mare had worked very well leading up to today's event and could only offer that the mare had finished second up at its first preparation as an excuse for today's performance. His explanation was noted. Trainer S. Lee undertook to advise stewards of anything that may come to light in the days following that may explain the mare's performance today. A post race veterinary examination of Easy Silence failed to reveal any abnormality.
Race 9:
The Rob Heathcote trained Madame Chanel rounded off the day with an emphatic win.
The victory went some way towards easing the pain of the defeat she suffered last time out, over the same track and distance, when she was just touched off in the final stride.
The barrier draw appeared to be a difficulty here.
“It was either go back from the draw , or go forward,” explained Heathcote. “There was none of this ‘let’s see what happens business’. We decided to go back.”
That decision paid dividends as Madame Chanel responded to the quiet ride of Brent Evans and put her best hoof forward when it mattered most, finishing strongly enough to secure the third win of her career.
“You know what some of these mares are like when they find their form. They hold their form,” said Heathcote.
“That’s what she is doing.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Madame Chanel (App B. Evans) threw its head in the air when being restrained shortly after the start. Snow Dane (S. Galloway) laid in under pressure in the straight.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
ALL THE ACTION FROM THE SUNSHINE COAST
A review of the meeting held at the Sunshine Coast on Sunday, August 31.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Cayman Islands was sent out favourite at prohibitive odds and he duly landed his first win at his ninth attempt – but it was no easy success.
The Greg Kennedy trained grey became involved in a punishing stride for stride battle with Don’t Back Down and although he held a narrow advantage all the way up the straight, he had to work hard under a vigorous ride from Eddie Wilkinson to secure a hard-earned result.
The short price came courtesy of the fact that Cayman Islands had fair Saturday city form to recommend his chances, including a result which saw Cayman Islands finish a creditable 4,80 lengths behind Tears’N’Cheers, who raced with merit in the Golden Rose in Sydney on Saturday.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
On return to scale a protest was lodged by J. Byrne, rider of the 4th placegetter, Four Dreamers, against Whydidyouleaveme being declared 3rd, alleging interference over the concluding stages. After taking evidence from the riders concerned and viewing the official video, stewards found approaching the finish post, Whydidyouleaveme and Four Dreamers bumped, however stewards were of the belief that this contact was as a result of both horses shifting ground, and therefore dismissed the objection
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:Fantastic Carat built on his previous two efforts to produce a winning performance for trainer Bruce McLachlan.
“He’s is a nice horse but very immature,” said McLachlan. “He’s going to be better later, over further,” was McLachlan’s succinct comment.
I took the opportunity to quiz McLachlan about his stable’s absence at the last two Cushion track meetings, which had raised a few eyebrows.
“There was nothing in that,” said McLachlan. I was in Cairns for the Cairns Cup for one meeting and I only had one runner in at the second meeting and that had a bad barrier, so I took it out.
“I’m a big fan of the cushion track,” emphasised McLachlan.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Leaving the 300m, General Chauvel (C. Reith) and Yeah Good (C. Whiteley) made contact. Vonmarkdunc (S. Mossman) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:The David Peoples trained Double Island won convincingly on debut.
The four-year-old son of Clang did everything asked of him to win with something in hand.
“He’s just a big, immature horse,” said Peoples.
“He has won some unofficial trials but we just had to take our time with him, that’s why he is only getting his first start as a four-year-old.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Heza Guru was declared a late scratching at 2.14 pm after the gelding broke through the gates and galloped for a considerable distance. Mount Magic, which reared in the barriers, was examined by the club's veterinary surgeon and cleared to race. Rio Jam (J. Byrne) was slow to begin. She’s A Model (K. Wharton) and Mount Magic (N. Thomas) raced wide throughout. A post-race veterinary examination of Rio Jam revealed the mare to have broken down in the off fore knee.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Bruce Brown trained Shifteman made light work of carrying top weight to land the second win of his career, first-up after a spell.
In the middle part of last year, Shifteman was making steady progress and in mid-august he landed his Maiden win. Ten days later EI struck and it brought a swift end to the momentum that Shifteman had been building.
Shifteman only returned to action in April, jumping from Maiden to Class 6 company.
In need of the run, out of his class and jumping from a wide gate, the son of Canadian Silver, not surprisingly, finished well down the placings, but only 5,30 lengths behind the winner.
He was then spelled again, returned to Class 1 company and had the advantage of the number two gate.
Not surprisingly again, the result this time was a better one.
Or perhaps it was the BB initials on the hood which made the difference.
“It was the first time I’d used it,” said Bruce Brown. “I thought if Gai could have her name up there, I’d use my initials.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
A. Merritt, rider of Stakes Are High, was reprimanded for permitting his mount to shift in near the 1100m, resulting in Thethingswedo (M. Heagney) being taken in on to Shifteman (B. Pengelly), resulting in that horse shifting in, tightening the running of Tarshae (G. Auckram), which had to be steadied.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Ginkgo Gold turned in a performance which surprised both his trainer and his jockey when she smashed a seventeen-and-a-half year old track record, lowering the time for the 1000m trip from 56,70 seconds (set by Maintained Wealth in December 1990) to 56,67 seconds.
Not that either trainer Kelly Doughty or jockey Chris Whiteley doubted her ability to win. It was just that the time she recorded was an unexpected bonus.
“It’s her first start for us,” beamed Doughty.
“I ride her in track-work every-day and I couldn’t understand how she could still be a Class 1 horse. I thought she would either win this or he was not what she seemed.”
Win it she did.
Cole Trickle gave some cheek until early in the straight but Whiteley then asked Ginkgo Gold to kick and the mare bounded away to put her name in the record books.
Whiteley had ridden GinkgoGold before so he knew a good result was a definite possibility.
“Oh, I knew she had some ability,” said Whiteley. “She still surprised me though. I knew we were travelling well, but I didn’t think we were going that fast.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Apprentice M. Hughes, rider of King Of Spirit, was severely reprimanded for allowing his mount to shift in near the 800m, which resulted in Mr Standfast (P. Hammersley) being steadied when tightened on to ECLAIR (C. Reith). Approaching the 600m, Eclair (C. Reith) had to be steadied to avoid the heels of King Of Spirit (M. Hughes), which shifted in. M. Hughes, rider of King Of Spirit, was reprimanded. Snorkel (J. Holder) raced wide rounding the home turn.When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of Eclair, C. Reith stated that the horse had been very excitable prior to the event. He added that Eclair began only fairly and failed to travel at any stage of the event and, in his opinion, proved very disappointing. A post-race veterinary examination of Eclair revealed the mare to be short striding in front.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Devastating was produced at exactly the right time by apprentice jockey Owen Turpin to roar home in spirited fashion to secure the eighth win of his career – supposedly over a distance well short of his best.
I say supposedly because, although the gelding’s name is more normally associated with distance races of 2000m and upwards, the record book does show that Devastating has, in fact, won four out of eight attempts at 1400m and has finished in the minor placings on two other occasions.
Trainer John Collins was using the race as to ‘freshen him up’ following a two month layoff, but the tenacity Devastating showed derailed all other attempts to take the prize.
When he flashed late, he was never going to be denied.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Shortly after the start, Go Gazza (N. Thomas) shifted in and bumped Devastating (O. Turpin).
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Lucky Luna continued his fine run of form under the guidance of trainer Eric Ropiha when he was produced on cue by jockey Kevin Forrester to salute for the fourth time in his last six starts.
His two defeats in that sequence were two runner-up finishes, the last just a long-neck behind Fangles who won again at Doomben on Saturday. Now there was a clue.
The four wins have come over 1226m (at Toowoomba), 1400m (twice, at the Sunshine Coast) and this 1300m trip.
“He is a consistent, good horse. He will go 1600m,”said Ropiha, “but while he is doing so well over these sort of distances we will stick to them.
“There’s a 1350m QTIS Stakes race for four-year-olds at Doomben towards the end of the month. All being well, that’s where he’ll be headed,” confirmed Ropiha.
Lucky Luna, who was Ropiha’s only runner on the day, was Ropiha’s second winner at the Sunshine Coast in recent days.
Ropiha had sent out two runners at the Cushion track meeting on Friday. Millimac came back a winner while Lezant finished second.
I congratulated Ropiha on what I termed, ‘a good couple of days.’
Ropiha corrected me.
‘I’ve had a great couple of days,” he said.
It was refreshing to find such enthusiasm.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Stirring (O. Turpin), Mr Fahrenheit (A. Merritt) and Prince Puzzle (E. Wilkinson) were slow to begin. Leaving the 1200m, Star Touch (K. Wharton) shifted in, making contact with Lucky Luna (K. Forrester). Leaving the 1000m, Lucky Luna (K. Forrester) had to be steadied to avoid the heels of Life’s Short, which shifted in slightly. Trainer K. Munce was advised that Star Touch, which bled during the event, will be barred from racing for a period of 3 months. AR53A.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Kelly Schweida and jockey Christian Reith combined to end the day, scoring a facile win with the Show A Heart mare Tolart.
Was it the step up to 1600m that made the difference?
“In part it was,” answered Schweida. “I actually think she’ll go 2000m so the step up in distance was a help.
“But the biggest thing was that she has been plagued by heavy tracks in the past. I think that’s almost all she’s run on.
“The better going was the big factor. It suited her and so she could show what she could do,” concluded Schweida.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Isti Polly was examined by the club's veterinary surgeon prior to the race and cleared to start. Fennec Fox (S. Galloway) overraced in the early stages. A post-race veterinary examination of Marylyn, which raced wide and compounded over the concluding stages, failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Cayman Islands was sent out favourite at prohibitive odds and he duly landed his first win at his ninth attempt – but it was no easy success.
The Greg Kennedy trained grey became involved in a punishing stride for stride battle with Don’t Back Down and although he held a narrow advantage all the way up the straight, he had to work hard under a vigorous ride from Eddie Wilkinson to secure a hard-earned result.
The short price came courtesy of the fact that Cayman Islands had fair Saturday city form to recommend his chances, including a result which saw Cayman Islands finish a creditable 4,80 lengths behind Tears’N’Cheers, who raced with merit in the Golden Rose in Sydney on Saturday.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
On return to scale a protest was lodged by J. Byrne, rider of the 4th placegetter, Four Dreamers, against Whydidyouleaveme being declared 3rd, alleging interference over the concluding stages. After taking evidence from the riders concerned and viewing the official video, stewards found approaching the finish post, Whydidyouleaveme and Four Dreamers bumped, however stewards were of the belief that this contact was as a result of both horses shifting ground, and therefore dismissed the objection
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:Fantastic Carat built on his previous two efforts to produce a winning performance for trainer Bruce McLachlan.
“He’s is a nice horse but very immature,” said McLachlan. “He’s going to be better later, over further,” was McLachlan’s succinct comment.
I took the opportunity to quiz McLachlan about his stable’s absence at the last two Cushion track meetings, which had raised a few eyebrows.
“There was nothing in that,” said McLachlan. I was in Cairns for the Cairns Cup for one meeting and I only had one runner in at the second meeting and that had a bad barrier, so I took it out.
“I’m a big fan of the cushion track,” emphasised McLachlan.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Leaving the 300m, General Chauvel (C. Reith) and Yeah Good (C. Whiteley) made contact. Vonmarkdunc (S. Mossman) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:The David Peoples trained Double Island won convincingly on debut.
The four-year-old son of Clang did everything asked of him to win with something in hand.
“He’s just a big, immature horse,” said Peoples.
“He has won some unofficial trials but we just had to take our time with him, that’s why he is only getting his first start as a four-year-old.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Heza Guru was declared a late scratching at 2.14 pm after the gelding broke through the gates and galloped for a considerable distance. Mount Magic, which reared in the barriers, was examined by the club's veterinary surgeon and cleared to race. Rio Jam (J. Byrne) was slow to begin. She’s A Model (K. Wharton) and Mount Magic (N. Thomas) raced wide throughout. A post-race veterinary examination of Rio Jam revealed the mare to have broken down in the off fore knee.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Bruce Brown trained Shifteman made light work of carrying top weight to land the second win of his career, first-up after a spell.
In the middle part of last year, Shifteman was making steady progress and in mid-august he landed his Maiden win. Ten days later EI struck and it brought a swift end to the momentum that Shifteman had been building.
Shifteman only returned to action in April, jumping from Maiden to Class 6 company.
In need of the run, out of his class and jumping from a wide gate, the son of Canadian Silver, not surprisingly, finished well down the placings, but only 5,30 lengths behind the winner.
He was then spelled again, returned to Class 1 company and had the advantage of the number two gate.
Not surprisingly again, the result this time was a better one.
Or perhaps it was the BB initials on the hood which made the difference.
“It was the first time I’d used it,” said Bruce Brown. “I thought if Gai could have her name up there, I’d use my initials.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
A. Merritt, rider of Stakes Are High, was reprimanded for permitting his mount to shift in near the 1100m, resulting in Thethingswedo (M. Heagney) being taken in on to Shifteman (B. Pengelly), resulting in that horse shifting in, tightening the running of Tarshae (G. Auckram), which had to be steadied.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Ginkgo Gold turned in a performance which surprised both his trainer and his jockey when she smashed a seventeen-and-a-half year old track record, lowering the time for the 1000m trip from 56,70 seconds (set by Maintained Wealth in December 1990) to 56,67 seconds.
Not that either trainer Kelly Doughty or jockey Chris Whiteley doubted her ability to win. It was just that the time she recorded was an unexpected bonus.
“It’s her first start for us,” beamed Doughty.
“I ride her in track-work every-day and I couldn’t understand how she could still be a Class 1 horse. I thought she would either win this or he was not what she seemed.”
Win it she did.
Cole Trickle gave some cheek until early in the straight but Whiteley then asked Ginkgo Gold to kick and the mare bounded away to put her name in the record books.
Whiteley had ridden GinkgoGold before so he knew a good result was a definite possibility.
“Oh, I knew she had some ability,” said Whiteley. “She still surprised me though. I knew we were travelling well, but I didn’t think we were going that fast.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Apprentice M. Hughes, rider of King Of Spirit, was severely reprimanded for allowing his mount to shift in near the 800m, which resulted in Mr Standfast (P. Hammersley) being steadied when tightened on to ECLAIR (C. Reith). Approaching the 600m, Eclair (C. Reith) had to be steadied to avoid the heels of King Of Spirit (M. Hughes), which shifted in. M. Hughes, rider of King Of Spirit, was reprimanded. Snorkel (J. Holder) raced wide rounding the home turn.When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of Eclair, C. Reith stated that the horse had been very excitable prior to the event. He added that Eclair began only fairly and failed to travel at any stage of the event and, in his opinion, proved very disappointing. A post-race veterinary examination of Eclair revealed the mare to be short striding in front.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Devastating was produced at exactly the right time by apprentice jockey Owen Turpin to roar home in spirited fashion to secure the eighth win of his career – supposedly over a distance well short of his best.
I say supposedly because, although the gelding’s name is more normally associated with distance races of 2000m and upwards, the record book does show that Devastating has, in fact, won four out of eight attempts at 1400m and has finished in the minor placings on two other occasions.
Trainer John Collins was using the race as to ‘freshen him up’ following a two month layoff, but the tenacity Devastating showed derailed all other attempts to take the prize.
When he flashed late, he was never going to be denied.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Shortly after the start, Go Gazza (N. Thomas) shifted in and bumped Devastating (O. Turpin).
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Lucky Luna continued his fine run of form under the guidance of trainer Eric Ropiha when he was produced on cue by jockey Kevin Forrester to salute for the fourth time in his last six starts.
His two defeats in that sequence were two runner-up finishes, the last just a long-neck behind Fangles who won again at Doomben on Saturday. Now there was a clue.
The four wins have come over 1226m (at Toowoomba), 1400m (twice, at the Sunshine Coast) and this 1300m trip.
“He is a consistent, good horse. He will go 1600m,”said Ropiha, “but while he is doing so well over these sort of distances we will stick to them.
“There’s a 1350m QTIS Stakes race for four-year-olds at Doomben towards the end of the month. All being well, that’s where he’ll be headed,” confirmed Ropiha.
Lucky Luna, who was Ropiha’s only runner on the day, was Ropiha’s second winner at the Sunshine Coast in recent days.
Ropiha had sent out two runners at the Cushion track meeting on Friday. Millimac came back a winner while Lezant finished second.
I congratulated Ropiha on what I termed, ‘a good couple of days.’
Ropiha corrected me.
‘I’ve had a great couple of days,” he said.
It was refreshing to find such enthusiasm.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Stirring (O. Turpin), Mr Fahrenheit (A. Merritt) and Prince Puzzle (E. Wilkinson) were slow to begin. Leaving the 1200m, Star Touch (K. Wharton) shifted in, making contact with Lucky Luna (K. Forrester). Leaving the 1000m, Lucky Luna (K. Forrester) had to be steadied to avoid the heels of Life’s Short, which shifted in slightly. Trainer K. Munce was advised that Star Touch, which bled during the event, will be barred from racing for a period of 3 months. AR53A.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Kelly Schweida and jockey Christian Reith combined to end the day, scoring a facile win with the Show A Heart mare Tolart.
Was it the step up to 1600m that made the difference?
“In part it was,” answered Schweida. “I actually think she’ll go 2000m so the step up in distance was a help.
“But the biggest thing was that she has been plagued by heavy tracks in the past. I think that’s almost all she’s run on.
“The better going was the big factor. It suited her and so she could show what she could do,” concluded Schweida.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Isti Polly was examined by the club's veterinary surgeon prior to the race and cleared to start. Fennec Fox (S. Galloway) overraced in the early stages. A post-race veterinary examination of Marylyn, which raced wide and compounded over the concluding stages, failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Monday, September 1, 2008
MISS ANDRETTI HAS LEFT THE RACETRACK
The racing history books will show that Miss Andretti was retired from racing on Saturday, August 30.
It will show that her connections made that call, but, if the truth be told, it was Miss Andretti herself who made the decision.
Up with the pace until the home turn in the 1100m event, Miss Andretti couldn’t go on with it - and neither did she want to!
She called time on her career, emphatically saying, ‘that’s it, I’m out. No more!’
Miss Andretti almost seemed to take a backward step as the field surged past her and raced away while she did little more than canter down the straight, losing ground with each stride as she made her way down to the winning post for one last time – absolutely exhausted of all of her once mighty racing prowess.
Almost as if to add insult to injury, Craig Newitt, Miss Andretti’s regular pilot was not on her back at the end of what had mostly been a glorious journey.
Newitt was on the winner of the race, Bel Mer.
He spoke of mixed feelings – but that didn’t disguise the fact that he had moved on. He spoke of his relief when he heard that Miss Andretti had not broken down, as some riders had thought and had mentioned to Newitt when he was pulling Bel Mer up after the winning line.
That relief was felt by all racing enthusiasts. At least the worst case scenario had been avoided.
Trainers like to say, ‘the horse will tell us when it’s time,” but as yet nobody is fluent in horse language – not even the world’s top trainers - so what horses are telling us remains open to various interpretations.
Therefore there is no right or wrong call at the time when the first doubt comes into play.
Most would prefer the decision makers to err on the side of caution but, at the end of the day, the right to make that decision is only vested in one entity, the connections of the horse itself.
There is praise for getting it right and blame for getting it wrong – but only after the fact when, with the benefit of hindsight, everybody knows exactly what decision should have been made.
With $2,8 million banked in stake earnings and Miss Andretti having a guaranteed exorbitant value as a broodmare whenever she retires to stud, there was scant motivation to put Miss Andretti out on the track one more time.
So was it the wrong decision to race Miss Andretti on Saturday?
For my part, initially I wasn’t happy that her connections were persevering with her, but as the race grew closer, I couldn’t help but want to watch what was going to happen with an increased sense of anticipation.
Could the fire of the old Miss Andretti flare for just one last time? And, if it could, how good would that be?
In a brief moment of optimism, that trait which carries all racing enthusiasts, I could half understand the dilemma facing the connections of Miss Andretti.
Sadly, it took Miss Andretti only a couple of forlorn strides at the top of the straight to bring me back to the reality I had recognised before the run – just as I am sure the connections of Miss Andretti were aware of that likely outcome.
It wasn’t a good way to end a memorable career of a champion racehorse … but at least the result was conclusive.
While the memory of Miss Andretti’s demise is still fresh, it will soon disappear, engulfed by better reminders of glory days and glittering success, capped by that extraordinary day out at Royal Ascot.
Miss Andretti may have left the track but the second phase of her career, that as a broodmare, will soon be in play.
This will not be the last time her name will make headlines.
It will show that her connections made that call, but, if the truth be told, it was Miss Andretti herself who made the decision.
Up with the pace until the home turn in the 1100m event, Miss Andretti couldn’t go on with it - and neither did she want to!
She called time on her career, emphatically saying, ‘that’s it, I’m out. No more!’
Miss Andretti almost seemed to take a backward step as the field surged past her and raced away while she did little more than canter down the straight, losing ground with each stride as she made her way down to the winning post for one last time – absolutely exhausted of all of her once mighty racing prowess.
Almost as if to add insult to injury, Craig Newitt, Miss Andretti’s regular pilot was not on her back at the end of what had mostly been a glorious journey.
Newitt was on the winner of the race, Bel Mer.
He spoke of mixed feelings – but that didn’t disguise the fact that he had moved on. He spoke of his relief when he heard that Miss Andretti had not broken down, as some riders had thought and had mentioned to Newitt when he was pulling Bel Mer up after the winning line.
That relief was felt by all racing enthusiasts. At least the worst case scenario had been avoided.
Trainers like to say, ‘the horse will tell us when it’s time,” but as yet nobody is fluent in horse language – not even the world’s top trainers - so what horses are telling us remains open to various interpretations.
Therefore there is no right or wrong call at the time when the first doubt comes into play.
Most would prefer the decision makers to err on the side of caution but, at the end of the day, the right to make that decision is only vested in one entity, the connections of the horse itself.
There is praise for getting it right and blame for getting it wrong – but only after the fact when, with the benefit of hindsight, everybody knows exactly what decision should have been made.
With $2,8 million banked in stake earnings and Miss Andretti having a guaranteed exorbitant value as a broodmare whenever she retires to stud, there was scant motivation to put Miss Andretti out on the track one more time.
So was it the wrong decision to race Miss Andretti on Saturday?
For my part, initially I wasn’t happy that her connections were persevering with her, but as the race grew closer, I couldn’t help but want to watch what was going to happen with an increased sense of anticipation.
Could the fire of the old Miss Andretti flare for just one last time? And, if it could, how good would that be?
In a brief moment of optimism, that trait which carries all racing enthusiasts, I could half understand the dilemma facing the connections of Miss Andretti.
Sadly, it took Miss Andretti only a couple of forlorn strides at the top of the straight to bring me back to the reality I had recognised before the run – just as I am sure the connections of Miss Andretti were aware of that likely outcome.
It wasn’t a good way to end a memorable career of a champion racehorse … but at least the result was conclusive.
While the memory of Miss Andretti’s demise is still fresh, it will soon disappear, engulfed by better reminders of glory days and glittering success, capped by that extraordinary day out at Royal Ascot.
Miss Andretti may have left the track but the second phase of her career, that as a broodmare, will soon be in play.
This will not be the last time her name will make headlines.
ALL THE ACTION FROM DOOMBEN
A review of the meeting held at Doomben on Saturday, August 30.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Felixtrinidad gained an overdue reward for his high level of consistency when jockey Shane Scriven produced the gelding with a finely timed challenge to scupper the claims of his rivals.
Felixtrinidad was not the easiest of rides in the early stages (see Stewards Report Extract) but Scriven’s experience allowed him to settle his mount at the rear of the field while staying within striking distance.
Second last into the straight as Gunsari and Kutalo vied for the lead, Felixtrinidad produced a strong, sustained run which carried him past all of his opposition and he still had enough left in the tank to see off the belated charge of Black Morgan to score a well-deserved victory.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Felixtrinidad (S. Scriven) was slow to begin. Felixtrinidad was inclined to over-race in the early stages. Little Stranger (S. Seamer) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Maryann Thexton was pleased with the way Chilled got to the line in a pressuried finish to land his second win from only six starts.
"He's a real smart, young colt," said Thexton, "but he is a colt and, as you know, with colts it sometimes takes a little time before the penny drops and they learn what they are supposed to do.
"Bobby (El-Issa) wanted me to let him chase to the front but I refused to let him do that," continued Thexton.
"Part of my job as a trainer is educating the horse and getting him to learn to relax in races.
"Bobby came back and said if he'd ridden him the way he wanted to ride him, Chilled would have won a lot easier.
"I can agree with that on the day, but the education is more important in terms of future success.
"So I was very pleased with Chilled's workmanlike performance. We still got the result and hopefully he has learnt something from the experience."
Chilled obviously has superior breeding on his side, being by Redoute's Choice out of a Encosta de Lago mare.
"This was step up in distance and I have no doubt he will go a mile. He is looking for more ground where he can still set good sectionals but be able to race well within himself."
For the record, Chilled tracked Meet George, who enjoyed an easy lead in the early part, before taking up the challenge in the straight.
Meet George was up for the fight though, and these two runners battled in out for much of the run home as Jazz Heart also loomed up, momentarily threatening to take both of them out of the equation.
Chilled eventually wore down Meet George and did enough to see off the persistent challenge of Jazz Heart, as well as that of the faster finishing Woorim, who had raced erratically throughout before suddenly finding the right gear which saw him arrive with a late charge.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Woorim (S. Scriven) ran wide rounding the home turn. A post-race veterinary examination of Woorim failed to reveal any abnormalities. Trainer R. Heathcote advised stewards that Woorim would be sent for a spell.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Russeting continues to steadily build her reputation and this win was her sixth in only thirteen starts. She also has three minor places to her credit.
Jockey Adrian Coombe tracked the favourite Le Sillage until the home turn. Russeting was lying fourth when Coombe switched him out into the clear at the head of the straight.
From there he made steady progress to gain the advantage and score a clearcut victory.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Russeting (A. Coome) raced wide in the early stages. Michelle Cafea (A. Spinks) raced wide for the majority of the event. A post-race veterinary examination of Aquareine, which finished a distant last, failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jim Byrne returned fresh from a voluntary short break from riding and the top hoop wasted little time in getting onto the scoreboard.
He also had a busy day with the stewards (see Stewards Report Extract – Races 6, 7 and 8).
His winner came in the form of the Falvelon gelding, Fangles, who guts out a hard earned victory for trainer Stephen Jones.
“I had a nice run throughout the race,” said Byrne. “When I peeled out I thought I would accelerate away but that didn’t happen. He did quicken nicely though but it became a real fight.
“The horse on his outside (Elegant Roi) did head him in fact, but to his credit he kicked back. It was a good solid win.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
General Albert (B. Pengelly) was examined behind the barriers and passed fit to start. Mr Braveheart (A. Spinks) and Fangles (J. Byrne) came together on jumping away. Emgee Em Grand (A. Coome) and Snagapot (K. Wharton) raced wide for the majority of the event. Near the 200m General Albert shifted in and bumped Al Fawzi (R. McMahon).
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Sir Coup got one back after being narrowly touched off by Tariki last time.
“She was just too good,” said jockey Paul Hammersley. “She travelled beautifully early and finished strongly. I think she’ll be even better over 2400m.”
Trainer Bevan Laming is considering the Lismore Cup as a possible next start for the seven-year-old.
“She had every chance last time and only got run down in the last stride (by Tariki),” said Laming. “She did better this time and is still improving.
“I’ll have a think about it now, but the Lismore Cup is the one I might target,”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Shortly after the start My Limit (A. Coome) was buffeted between Take The Plea (L. Dillon) and Lord Rupert (K. Wharton). Tariki (S. Galloway), which jumped away awkwardly, was tightened on jumping away between October Sky (A. Spinks) and Kintyre Conquest (B. El-Issa) which shifted out. October Sky overraced in the early and middle stages. Sansaba raced wide for the majority of the event. My Limit had difficulty obtaining clear running for the majority of the straight.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Wayne Nugent was suitably impressed with the performance of his charge, Friendly Embrace after the gelding had warded off all challengers to land the tenth win of his career.
“He’s won three this preparation now,” said Nugent. “He just tries his guts out. He had a tendon problem as a three-year-old which set him back a bit, but he’s developed into a really nice horse now,” said Nugent.
“He thinks he is a champion,” said jockey Scott Seamer, referring to Friendly Embrace.
“He doesn’t know how to run a bad race. He just saw the gap, went to it and kept going.”
Nugent only has two horses in work.
“I’m a farrier by trade. This (training) is a bit of a sideline,” explained Nugent.
“The other horse (Monaleah) is going around at Gatton about … now,” said Nugent. (Monaleah finished second at Gatton).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Bold Reason (P. Hammersley) and Tellasecret (B. El-Issa) raced wide throughout. Rounding the home turn Forestreno (A. Pattillo) was held up and unable to improve.
When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of Master Denis, jockey J. Byrne stated that in the early stages the horse was obliged to race in restricted room to the inside of Bold Reason, however failed to respond to his riding from the 500m. Trainer A. Bailey's foreperson Ms S. Thompson could offer no explanation and undertook to advise stewards of anything that comes to light in days subsequent to the event that may explain the performance. A post-race veterinary examination of Master Denis failed to reveal any abnormalities. A post-race veterinary examination of Spur Me On (M. Radecker) failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Barry Squair and jockey Shane Scriven combined to bring Striking Victory home to an impressive win.
Striking Victory was having his first run for the Squair yard, who took over the care of the nine-year-old from Gerald Ryan after the gelding had disappointed when finishing down the field in the Coffs Cup.
Striking Victory had started joint favourite on that occasion, having won his previous start at Kembla Grange so there was some form to work with when he entered the Squair stable some three-and-a-half to four weeks ago.
“The owner Greg Brodie wanted to bring the horse up this way and he rang me and asked if I would take him,” explained Squair.
“I was a bit behind the eight ball today in terms of knowing what he can do, but we decided to ride him back and see what we could do from there.”
Scriven takes up the story.
“I was confident a long way out,” said Scriven. “He got into a rhythm where he was happy. I made the move. Scotty (Seamer on Secrets Untold) chased me. I got into him and he just dug in and dug in … and he just kept picking up.
“He’s not finished yet. If he can pick up a couple of more races like this, it would be good,” concluded Scriven.
Striking Victory was Scriven’s second winner of the meeting. He was the only rider on the card to have more than one success on the day.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Following his riding engagement in Race 6, B. El-Issa was stood down by the Club's doctor. B. El-Issa was advised that he must obtain a medical clearance prior to resuming race riding. Polar Bear (A. Coome) was slow to begin. Polar Bear raced wide for the majority of the event.
When questioned regarding her riding of Grey Stream, especially in the middle stages, apprentice M. Radecker stated that her instructions were to race forward near the speed, however endeavour not to fight the mare as she has a tendency to resent being restrained. Apprentice Radecker stated that in the middle stages she endeavoured to settle Grey Stream behind the leader Umaprince (T. Chambers), however the horse had a tendency to resent being restrained and she elected to allow the horse to stride forward outside Umaprince passing the 800m. Her explanation was noted.
Jockey S. Scriven was fined $200 under AR. 137(c) for making a celebratory gesture on Striking Victoryprior to the winning post.
Stewards questioned jockey J. Byrne regarding his riding of Prosecution over the concluding stages, in particular in the straight. J. Byrne stated that initially after electing to take a run to the inside of Grey Stream (M. Radecker) he believed that that run would eventually close and therefore elected to alter course to the outside of Grey Stream. Stewards were of the opinion that although J. Byrne's actions did not cost his mount a placing in the race they nevertheless advised him that they believed he made an error of judgment by failing to pursue the uninterrupted run to the inside of Grey Stream.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
If taken purely as a spectacle, Deacon undoubtedly turned in the performance of the day.
The David Murphy trained five-year-old was slow away, was well back early and still in some apparent strife at the head of the straight. But that’s when the illusion of it being a contest evaporated.
Once jockey Brad Pengelly asked for an effort, it was race over as Deacon’s response was to call on a burst of power which saw him accelerate to the head of affairs in a most impressive manner to win, untroubled, going away from his opposition by a widening 4,50 length margin.
“He still doesn’t want to jump,” said Pengelly. But that was the only question mark in his report.
“He’s a classic example of the Zabeel type,” said Pengelly. “He needs time to get over some of his tendencies. Just like he needed the step up to a mile today. He is just going to get better and better.
“I really like riding for Dave’s stable,” continued Pengelly. “He’s a terrific trainer and his horses always give you a good feeling.”
Murphy himself was more than happy with the result.
“He’s still learning,” said Murphy. “He’s still doing things wrong and when that happens you just take your medicine and go back and work on those points that need to be improved."
"That’s always easier to do when you know you have got something to work with.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Deacon (B. Pengelly), which jumped away a little awkwardly, shifted in and made contact with the hind quarters of Bannock Bay (A. Pattillo). Semi Wells (S. Seamer) raced wide for the majority of the event. Shortly after straightening Deacon shifted out and bumped Daffy which in turn shifted out and bumped Beautiful Eyes (D. Missen). Near the 200m Ram Jam Inn (M. Hughes), which had improved to the inside of Overanxious (J. Byrne) where there was doubtful room, was momentarily impeded by Overanxious which shifted back in slightly.
When questioned regarding the performance of Overanxious, jockey J. Byrne stated that his instructions were to try and lead on the horse but to have the horse settle as it has had a tendency to over-race. He added that after urging the horse forward in the early stages it then over-raced and pulled hard for the majority of the event. Trainer J. Morrisey's representative Mr Perry confirmed the instructions and added that the horse was having its first start over today's distance and had had a tendency previously to over-race. Their explanations were noted.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Felixtrinidad gained an overdue reward for his high level of consistency when jockey Shane Scriven produced the gelding with a finely timed challenge to scupper the claims of his rivals.
Felixtrinidad was not the easiest of rides in the early stages (see Stewards Report Extract) but Scriven’s experience allowed him to settle his mount at the rear of the field while staying within striking distance.
Second last into the straight as Gunsari and Kutalo vied for the lead, Felixtrinidad produced a strong, sustained run which carried him past all of his opposition and he still had enough left in the tank to see off the belated charge of Black Morgan to score a well-deserved victory.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Felixtrinidad (S. Scriven) was slow to begin. Felixtrinidad was inclined to over-race in the early stages. Little Stranger (S. Seamer) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Maryann Thexton was pleased with the way Chilled got to the line in a pressuried finish to land his second win from only six starts.
"He's a real smart, young colt," said Thexton, "but he is a colt and, as you know, with colts it sometimes takes a little time before the penny drops and they learn what they are supposed to do.
"Bobby (El-Issa) wanted me to let him chase to the front but I refused to let him do that," continued Thexton.
"Part of my job as a trainer is educating the horse and getting him to learn to relax in races.
"Bobby came back and said if he'd ridden him the way he wanted to ride him, Chilled would have won a lot easier.
"I can agree with that on the day, but the education is more important in terms of future success.
"So I was very pleased with Chilled's workmanlike performance. We still got the result and hopefully he has learnt something from the experience."
Chilled obviously has superior breeding on his side, being by Redoute's Choice out of a Encosta de Lago mare.
"This was step up in distance and I have no doubt he will go a mile. He is looking for more ground where he can still set good sectionals but be able to race well within himself."
For the record, Chilled tracked Meet George, who enjoyed an easy lead in the early part, before taking up the challenge in the straight.
Meet George was up for the fight though, and these two runners battled in out for much of the run home as Jazz Heart also loomed up, momentarily threatening to take both of them out of the equation.
Chilled eventually wore down Meet George and did enough to see off the persistent challenge of Jazz Heart, as well as that of the faster finishing Woorim, who had raced erratically throughout before suddenly finding the right gear which saw him arrive with a late charge.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Woorim (S. Scriven) ran wide rounding the home turn. A post-race veterinary examination of Woorim failed to reveal any abnormalities. Trainer R. Heathcote advised stewards that Woorim would be sent for a spell.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Russeting continues to steadily build her reputation and this win was her sixth in only thirteen starts. She also has three minor places to her credit.
Jockey Adrian Coombe tracked the favourite Le Sillage until the home turn. Russeting was lying fourth when Coombe switched him out into the clear at the head of the straight.
From there he made steady progress to gain the advantage and score a clearcut victory.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Russeting (A. Coome) raced wide in the early stages. Michelle Cafea (A. Spinks) raced wide for the majority of the event. A post-race veterinary examination of Aquareine, which finished a distant last, failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jim Byrne returned fresh from a voluntary short break from riding and the top hoop wasted little time in getting onto the scoreboard.
He also had a busy day with the stewards (see Stewards Report Extract – Races 6, 7 and 8).
His winner came in the form of the Falvelon gelding, Fangles, who guts out a hard earned victory for trainer Stephen Jones.
“I had a nice run throughout the race,” said Byrne. “When I peeled out I thought I would accelerate away but that didn’t happen. He did quicken nicely though but it became a real fight.
“The horse on his outside (Elegant Roi) did head him in fact, but to his credit he kicked back. It was a good solid win.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
General Albert (B. Pengelly) was examined behind the barriers and passed fit to start. Mr Braveheart (A. Spinks) and Fangles (J. Byrne) came together on jumping away. Emgee Em Grand (A. Coome) and Snagapot (K. Wharton) raced wide for the majority of the event. Near the 200m General Albert shifted in and bumped Al Fawzi (R. McMahon).
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Sir Coup got one back after being narrowly touched off by Tariki last time.
“She was just too good,” said jockey Paul Hammersley. “She travelled beautifully early and finished strongly. I think she’ll be even better over 2400m.”
Trainer Bevan Laming is considering the Lismore Cup as a possible next start for the seven-year-old.
“She had every chance last time and only got run down in the last stride (by Tariki),” said Laming. “She did better this time and is still improving.
“I’ll have a think about it now, but the Lismore Cup is the one I might target,”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Shortly after the start My Limit (A. Coome) was buffeted between Take The Plea (L. Dillon) and Lord Rupert (K. Wharton). Tariki (S. Galloway), which jumped away awkwardly, was tightened on jumping away between October Sky (A. Spinks) and Kintyre Conquest (B. El-Issa) which shifted out. October Sky overraced in the early and middle stages. Sansaba raced wide for the majority of the event. My Limit had difficulty obtaining clear running for the majority of the straight.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Wayne Nugent was suitably impressed with the performance of his charge, Friendly Embrace after the gelding had warded off all challengers to land the tenth win of his career.
“He’s won three this preparation now,” said Nugent. “He just tries his guts out. He had a tendon problem as a three-year-old which set him back a bit, but he’s developed into a really nice horse now,” said Nugent.
“He thinks he is a champion,” said jockey Scott Seamer, referring to Friendly Embrace.
“He doesn’t know how to run a bad race. He just saw the gap, went to it and kept going.”
Nugent only has two horses in work.
“I’m a farrier by trade. This (training) is a bit of a sideline,” explained Nugent.
“The other horse (Monaleah) is going around at Gatton about … now,” said Nugent. (Monaleah finished second at Gatton).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Bold Reason (P. Hammersley) and Tellasecret (B. El-Issa) raced wide throughout. Rounding the home turn Forestreno (A. Pattillo) was held up and unable to improve.
When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of Master Denis, jockey J. Byrne stated that in the early stages the horse was obliged to race in restricted room to the inside of Bold Reason, however failed to respond to his riding from the 500m. Trainer A. Bailey's foreperson Ms S. Thompson could offer no explanation and undertook to advise stewards of anything that comes to light in days subsequent to the event that may explain the performance. A post-race veterinary examination of Master Denis failed to reveal any abnormalities. A post-race veterinary examination of Spur Me On (M. Radecker) failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Barry Squair and jockey Shane Scriven combined to bring Striking Victory home to an impressive win.
Striking Victory was having his first run for the Squair yard, who took over the care of the nine-year-old from Gerald Ryan after the gelding had disappointed when finishing down the field in the Coffs Cup.
Striking Victory had started joint favourite on that occasion, having won his previous start at Kembla Grange so there was some form to work with when he entered the Squair stable some three-and-a-half to four weeks ago.
“The owner Greg Brodie wanted to bring the horse up this way and he rang me and asked if I would take him,” explained Squair.
“I was a bit behind the eight ball today in terms of knowing what he can do, but we decided to ride him back and see what we could do from there.”
Scriven takes up the story.
“I was confident a long way out,” said Scriven. “He got into a rhythm where he was happy. I made the move. Scotty (Seamer on Secrets Untold) chased me. I got into him and he just dug in and dug in … and he just kept picking up.
“He’s not finished yet. If he can pick up a couple of more races like this, it would be good,” concluded Scriven.
Striking Victory was Scriven’s second winner of the meeting. He was the only rider on the card to have more than one success on the day.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Following his riding engagement in Race 6, B. El-Issa was stood down by the Club's doctor. B. El-Issa was advised that he must obtain a medical clearance prior to resuming race riding. Polar Bear (A. Coome) was slow to begin. Polar Bear raced wide for the majority of the event.
When questioned regarding her riding of Grey Stream, especially in the middle stages, apprentice M. Radecker stated that her instructions were to race forward near the speed, however endeavour not to fight the mare as she has a tendency to resent being restrained. Apprentice Radecker stated that in the middle stages she endeavoured to settle Grey Stream behind the leader Umaprince (T. Chambers), however the horse had a tendency to resent being restrained and she elected to allow the horse to stride forward outside Umaprince passing the 800m. Her explanation was noted.
Jockey S. Scriven was fined $200 under AR. 137(c) for making a celebratory gesture on Striking Victoryprior to the winning post.
Stewards questioned jockey J. Byrne regarding his riding of Prosecution over the concluding stages, in particular in the straight. J. Byrne stated that initially after electing to take a run to the inside of Grey Stream (M. Radecker) he believed that that run would eventually close and therefore elected to alter course to the outside of Grey Stream. Stewards were of the opinion that although J. Byrne's actions did not cost his mount a placing in the race they nevertheless advised him that they believed he made an error of judgment by failing to pursue the uninterrupted run to the inside of Grey Stream.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
If taken purely as a spectacle, Deacon undoubtedly turned in the performance of the day.
The David Murphy trained five-year-old was slow away, was well back early and still in some apparent strife at the head of the straight. But that’s when the illusion of it being a contest evaporated.
Once jockey Brad Pengelly asked for an effort, it was race over as Deacon’s response was to call on a burst of power which saw him accelerate to the head of affairs in a most impressive manner to win, untroubled, going away from his opposition by a widening 4,50 length margin.
“He still doesn’t want to jump,” said Pengelly. But that was the only question mark in his report.
“He’s a classic example of the Zabeel type,” said Pengelly. “He needs time to get over some of his tendencies. Just like he needed the step up to a mile today. He is just going to get better and better.
“I really like riding for Dave’s stable,” continued Pengelly. “He’s a terrific trainer and his horses always give you a good feeling.”
Murphy himself was more than happy with the result.
“He’s still learning,” said Murphy. “He’s still doing things wrong and when that happens you just take your medicine and go back and work on those points that need to be improved."
"That’s always easier to do when you know you have got something to work with.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Deacon (B. Pengelly), which jumped away a little awkwardly, shifted in and made contact with the hind quarters of Bannock Bay (A. Pattillo). Semi Wells (S. Seamer) raced wide for the majority of the event. Shortly after straightening Deacon shifted out and bumped Daffy which in turn shifted out and bumped Beautiful Eyes (D. Missen). Near the 200m Ram Jam Inn (M. Hughes), which had improved to the inside of Overanxious (J. Byrne) where there was doubtful room, was momentarily impeded by Overanxious which shifted back in slightly.
When questioned regarding the performance of Overanxious, jockey J. Byrne stated that his instructions were to try and lead on the horse but to have the horse settle as it has had a tendency to over-race. He added that after urging the horse forward in the early stages it then over-raced and pulled hard for the majority of the event. Trainer J. Morrisey's representative Mr Perry confirmed the instructions and added that the horse was having its first start over today's distance and had had a tendency previously to over-race. Their explanations were noted.
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