A review of the meeting held at Ipswich on Thursday, September 11.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
“No black eye this time?”
“No, no black eye this time,” answered apprentice jockey Mandy Radecker.
The subject of our exchange was Spanish Fling, the Pat Duff trained mare who, two runs prior to this win at Ipswich, had given Radecker a black eye when throwing her head at the barriers before a start at Doomben.
“She was good,” said Radecker. “She was good last time as well.
“She does want to over-race early though,” continued Radecker. “I had to tell her ‘get back here’ but she wants to get away from them.
“And if they come up to her she sort of wants to look around at them ... but she is learning.
“Just a typical female really. Wants to do things her way,” laughed Radecker.
Spanish Fling has now won two from four starts.
“I’m certain she will be as effective over 1200m,”continued Radecker. “Watch her in about six months time.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Spanish Fling (M. Radecker) began awkwardly. Navigation (J. Bowditch) and Willowie Lad (A. Pattillo) brushed on jumping away. Willowie Lad over-raced during the early stages. Spanish Fling raced wide during the early stages of the event. Approaching and rounding the home turn, Winnow (D. Tanti) was inclined to lay out. Bradford (J. Bowditch) was inclined to lay out under pressure over the concluding stages.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
This was not a strong field and Taj Paru took the opportunity to post her first win at the sixteenth time of asking.
“She was just about ready to win if you take her form on her last couple of runs at the coast,” said trainer Allan Ross.
“The slight step up in distance to 1350m might have helped a bit, but she wouldn’t want much more than that.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Hot Goss (G. Baker) over-raced during the early stages. Near the 800m, Bearhart Gold (J. Bowditch) improved up on to the heels of Danzari (J. Murphy) and had to be steadied. Rhidan’s Chant was inclined to hang out during the early and middle stages of the race. Near the 450m, Bearhart Gold shifted in to improve and in doing so had to be steadied off the heels of Danzari. Jugerston (L. Rolls) was held up for clear running between Tilopia (S. Drake) and General Remark (S. Apthorpe) from the 350m until approaching the 250m. Jugerston then shifted out across the heels of General Remark in order to improve. Our Secret Affair (T. Pannell) had difficulty obtaining clear running in the straight and as a result near the 100m shifted out to obtain clear running and as a result bumped the hind quarters of Reigning Chief. Our Secret Affair had difficulty obtaining clear running over the concluding stages. Bearhart Gold (J. Bowditch) was unable to obtain clear running over the concluding stages when awkwardly placed behind the heels of Rhidan’s Chant. Reigning Chief and Vice Queen raced wide throughout.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Lawrie Mayfield-Smith trained Baldy Mount became the third favourite to win in as many races when apprentice jockey Luke Rolls brought the chestnut through with a measured challenge to get the better of the front-running In The Clink close to the line.
Baldy Mount tracked In The Clink throughout the running and was asked to go forward soon after entering the straight.
While Baldy Mount did close up gradually on In The Clink, the latter was full of fight and kicked on strongly mid-straight, forcing Baldy Mount to work for victory.
Was Rolls at all concerned when In The Clink kicked again at the 200m?
“No, I wasn’t,” answered Rolls. “I rode Baldy Mount last time and I know he gets home well.
“I’d also done some form on the other one (In The Clink) and I know he tends to stop ... so, yeah, I always thought I’d get there.”
Baldy Mount was the first leg of a double for both Mayfield-Smith and Rolls, who combined again to bring Simian Express home a winner in Race 7.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The starting time of this race was delayed due to Astrolight being unable to be loaded into the barriers. Astrolight was subsequently declared a late scratching. Trainer J. Caught was advised that Astrolight must perform satisfactorily in an official barrier trial prior to its next race start. Deenlester (P. Hammersley) was slow to begin. Approaching the first turn, Imperial Grouch (J. Murphy) improved up on to the heels of Baldy Mount (L. Rolls) and had to be steadied. Leaving the 1400m, Robson (D. Tanti) improved up on to the heels of In The Clink (O. Turpin) and was steadied when the pace of the race slackened. Paleface Warrior (G. Baker), which was following, was also steadied as a consequence. Imperial Grouch (J. Murphy) was held up for clear running near the 300m when persisting for a narrow run between Deenlister (P. Hammersley) and Little Bobby (C. Small), which was weakening. At a subsequent inquiry, J. Murphy, rider of Imperial Grouch, was reminded of safety obligations when riders attempt to take runs where there is doubtful room. At Work (R. Hinricks) raced wide throughout. A post race veterinary examination of Prince Hattal, which travelled wide throughout, failed to reveal any obvious abnormality. Trainer J. Hanna advised that the gelding would now be sent for a spell.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
This was probably the simplest race on the card in terms of everything going to script.
The main fancy, the Bryan Guy trained Cool Edition, although only a one-time winner going into the race, had sound recent city form to recommend her chances and she duly took care of her rivals with the minimum of fuss under a competent ride from Paul Hammersley.
The duo lay off the speed in the early part but once they launched their challenge it was ‘race over’ as Cool Edition cruised home to win a touch more comfortably than the official 1,30 length winning margin suggests.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Loaded Tycoon over-raced during the middle stages.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Defend The Hill is a big gelding with a big heart.
The son of General Nediym was only winning for the third time in twenty-three starts when driven home by jockey Andrew Spinks, but the fact that he was competitive at all after what he has been through stands as a credit to the character of both horse and trainer.
“He’s got such bad legs,” explained trainer Brad Maidment.
“He’s had cracked sesamoid’s, chipped knees, you name it, he’s had it,” continued Maidment.
“He’s apparently out of a valuable broodmare, but he couldn’t go through a sales ring because of his problems.
“He has very bad conformation in front.
“Then there was EI. He was so sick after EI. He lost 100kg.”
What did Maidment think of the run?
“I made a mistake last time,” volunteered Maidment. “I should have lead with him in town last start. I might just have got away with it.
“But, as it was, he sat just off the speed but then got checked at the top of the straight.
“He got there today though. Great ride from Andrew (Spinks). He deserved the win,” concluded Maidment.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Lucky Counter (C. Isdale) raced wide from a point leaving the 700m. Approaching the 300m, Diamondsaucash (W. Clasohm), which was weakening, was tightened for room and had to be steadied when racing between Swirling Moss (J. Bowditch) and Rock Slide (L. Rolls), both of which shifted ground. Maximiss (S. Drake) had difficulty obtaining clear running over the concluding stages. Diamondsaucash (W. Clasohm) and Rock Slide (L. Rolls) raced wide throughout.
Stewards questioned jockey S Drake, rider of Maximiss, as to why she did not take advantage of clear running to the outside of Rock Slide (L. Rolls) near the 300m. S. Drake stated that after initially intending to take that run, she believed that runners in front would fan and force her wider on the track. She added that for this reason she elected to alter course and shift to the inside of Swirling Moss (J. Bowditch) to obtain clear running. Stewards were of the opinion that although S. Drake's actions did not cost her mount a placing in the race, they nevertheless advised her that they believed she made an error of judgement by failing to pursue the uninterrupted run to the outside.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The ever-consistent Michelle Cafea got the maximum reward for her efforts when arriving with a late rattle to snare Androuge in the shadow of the post.
This was Michelle Cafea’s second win in her last three starts.
Prior to that Michelle Cafea, who is trained by David Lawlor, recorded a number of runner-up finishes, so her latest successes have been built on a foundation of a solid form-line.
Apprentice jockey Justin Wood judged the race to perfection. He was put on the horse for a particular reason.
“I think Justin is a jockey who does a lot of work – yet nobody gives him rides,” stated Lawlor.
“I’ve used him before and he did a good job for me when finishing second,” continued Lawlor. “I thought I’d give him a chance and he did a great job.”
The six-year-old mare clearly thrives on racing, having had six runs in the last two months.
Is she an easy horse to work with?
“Anyone could train her mate,” answered Lawlor.
Michelle Cafea is due to back-up at Eagle Farm this Saturday.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Rounding the home turn, Grey Expectations (C. Whiteley) was inclined to lay out. A post race veterinary examination of Grey Expectations revealed the horse to be lame in the off foreleg. Trainer G. Logan was advised that a veterinary clearance would be required for the gelding prior to its next race start.
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Simian Express provided a second ‘no sweat’ win on the day for trainer Lawrie Mayfield-Smith and apprentice jockey Luke Rolls.
The speedy mare stepped up the tempo in the home straight and soon had the rest of the field only chasing for second place as she maintained a her effort all the way to the line to score easily by 2,50 lengths.
Simian Express is owned by the Wilston Grange Football Club Syndicate, a twenty-strong group of people, several of whom were on track to call their horse home.
For these twenty owners, syndication has proved to be a marvellous concept.
For the rest of us, it proved to be a good advertisement of why racing enthusiasts should get into racehorse ownership.
Sure the prize-money has to be divided accordingly, but, on the other hand, there is equally less pain when facing the training bills - and how many owners would be able to take their place at the winners’ enclosure were it not for the syndicate arrangement?
Above and beyond the finances there is the satisfying factor of shared enjoyment, which was clearly on show after the race as Simian Express’s owners celebrated their good fortune.
The mare has won two out of eight starts and she also has four minor placings to her credit.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Approaching the 800m, Wusta (B. Evans) was checked when tightened for room between Bally Kelly (D. Tanti) and Kell’s Way (J. Murphy), which shifted in slightly. J. Murphy was severely reprimanded and advised to ensure she provides 2 lengths clearance when crossing. Passing the 800m, Prank Caller (R. Goltz) raced up on to the heels of Lady Fuji (G. Geran) and was steadied. Falling Star was held up for clear running from the 400m until near the 250m. Near the 250m, Margot’s Image shifted out across the heels of Lady Fuji (G. Geran) and in doing so made heavy contact with Mythical Memory (A. Taylor). B. El-Issa, rider of Margot’s Image, was advised to exercise more care in similar circumstances.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Paul Nolan (Jnr) trained Come Said The Boy was a most impressive winner here.
The son of Ex Moxie, fresh from his Maiden win, was ridden back this time and appeared to relish the role, reeling in his opposition so quickly over the last 150m that jockey Tony Pattillo had the luxury of being able to stop riding his mount out short of the line.
“We decided to ride him back a bit,” confirmed Nolan.
“I was a bit concerned at one stage but he went from travelling not so well to travelling really well.
“It just gives you so much more to work with when they can run from off the speed,” continued Nolan.
“And don’t forget, he beat older horses here, which is a good thing so early in his three-year-old season.”
Jockey Tony Pattillo smiled broadly when returning to the winners’ enclosure.
“Jeez he’s a good chaser,” beamed Pattillo. “Good chaser. Good horse.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Majestic Ruler began awkwardly and lost considerable ground. Near the 800m, Danish Dandy (C. Whiteley) improved up on to the heels of Stakes Are High (A. Merritt) and was steadied. Passing the 600m, Za Magic (B. El-Issa) and Galoubet (R. Goltz) bumped on several occasions. Jordane (B. Evans) raced ungenerously in the middle stages. Oscar The Great (P. Hammersley) had difficulty obtaining clear running in the home straight.
W. Clasohm, rider of the unplaced Brav ‘N’ Ample, was reminded of his obligations to ride his mounts right out to the finish line.
When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of Za Magic, B. El-Issa stated that the horse travelled well throughout, however approaching the 500m, Za Magic failed to respond to his urgings and, in his opinion, proved most disappointing in its failure to finish the race off. A post race veterinary examination of Za Magic failed to reveal any abnormalities.
A post race veterinary examination of Tinkles failed to reveal any abnormalities.
The club's veterinary surgeon also reported that Brav ‘N’Ample had sustained a laceration to the inside of the near fore fetlock.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
ALL THE ACTION FROM THE GOLD COAST
A review of the meeting at the Gold Coast on Wednesday, September 10.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The well-fancied Cradle Rock won on debut for trainer Norm Stephens.
Jockey Todd Pannell pushed Cradle Rock forward at the break and she easily maintained a rail run in the leading line until being asked to so a little more once the field had turned for home.
The was no fireworks but Cradle Rock gradually asserted her authority, producing a sustained effort all the way to the line to win by a comfortable 2,50 length margin.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
D. Bell the trainer of Monashee Diva which proved difficult to load was advised that a warning would be placed on the filly in regard to its barrier manners. Monashee Diva (J. Holder) jumped in the air at the start and lost ground. French Credit and Munster Province were obliged to race wide for the majority of the event. Leaving the 500m Player Run hung out and had to be steadied off the heels of Legal Response (App L. Dittman). Centennial Son (J. Jones) raced greenly in the middle stages and near the 450m improved up onto the heels of Dash’s Princess (App M. Palmer) and had to be steadied. Bibiana was inclined to lay in when placed under pressure in the straight. Approaching the finish line French Credit shifted in abruptly making contact with Easy Kisses which shifted in bumping Go Easy, which then became unbalanced shifting in making contact with Player Run. L. Erhart trainer of French Credit was advised that the horse must trial to the satisfaction of stewards prior to its next race start.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Kelly Doughty trained Varcarme scored a spectacular comeback win, given the circumstances of the horse’s history over the last seventeen months.
“He went through the rail here in training,””explained Gary Doughty taking up the story.
“He fractured his knee. They couldn’t pin it. They couldn’t plate it,” shrugged Doughty, emphasising the hopelessness of the cause as it appeared at the time.
“But we persevered,” continued Doughty.
“He was in a cast for three months. He was in the paddock form ten months, then Kelly spent another three months slowly bringing him back to racing fitness. What a performance!”
Jockey Jason Holder was equally impressed with the run.
“He was always going comfortably, but he didn’t really know what to do,” said Holder.
“He got a bit lost on the turn and I had to give him one or two reminders.
"Then he wanted to duck in again when passing the leader. Even at the line he was still stargazing. He can only get better.”
The ‘Holder Headlines’ have been a little bit quiet in recent times.
“I’ve been taking it a little bit easy. I went back to Adelaide for a visit,” explained Holder.
“But things should start picking up now.”
Take the tip!
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Refinance (App S. Miller) and Propheteer (G. Baker) made contact on several occasions shortly after the start and as a result Propheteer became unbalanced and shifted out making contact with Mapadama (R. McMahon).Refinance raced greenly in the early stages. Leaving the 700m Propheteer commenced to over-race and had to be steadied and moved wider on the track to avoid the heels of Refinance. Propheteer was then obliged to race wide for the remainder of the event. County Tale was held up and unable to obtain clear running in the early stages of the straight. Vacarme (J. Holder) appeared to shy when approaching the finish. A post race veterinary examination of Blackal failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Moulin Lady, a three-year-old daughter of Reset, won with complete authority here to underline the fact that trainer Alan Bailey might just have another lively prospect on his hands.
It was Moulin Lady’s second start and she raced first-up after a five-and-a-half month layoff.
“She was shin-sore when she came to me and she just needed time,” said Bailey.
“She has always shown ability and it was a good, strong showing today.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Delezio (R. McMahon) raced wide for the majority. Mossman Bay (J. Byrne) raced extremely wide for the majority of the event. Jockey A. Pattillo reported that in his opinion Stainglass had failed to handle the rain affected surface today.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Multire Music shortened late in the betting and those who got on got it dead right as the Terry McCarthy trained filly stretched out well to win in decisive fashion.
This was the second win in only four starts for the Mull Of Kintyre filly.
“She won well at Coffs on debut,” said McCarthy.
“Then we tried to ride her back and she over-raced when unplaced at Eagle Farm,” continued McCarthy.
“From there she had three weeks in-between runs. I really couldn’t get a good gallop into her and she stopped and they only got to her in the last 50m last time (on September 3 at Grafton).
“I took the punt to back her up today and things worked out,” concluded McCarthy.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Love De Cause (B. El-Issa) and Arbuckle (K. Wharton) were both slow to begin. Near the 400m Love De Cause shifted in momentarily tightening the running of Malesia (R. Wiggins) and Arbuckle. Arbuckle was inclined to lay in when placed under pressure in the straight. Love De Cause shifted in when placed under pressure in the straight. A post race veterinary examination of Arbuckle failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
This was one of the occasions where the favourite made no mistake in a small field.
The Richie Stephenson trained Tarlee Dancer was never troubled under confident handling by jockey Garry Baker and the chestnut duly won by a clear-cut 4,00 length margin.
“He was just short of a run last time,” volunteered Baker.
“With the benefit of that run behind him, and then fact that he likes soft going, everything went his way today and he finished off well.
“I wish there were more who could come back as easy as that.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Falzig which suffered an injury at the stables was declared a late scratching at 12.54 p.m. by order of stewards acting on veterinary advice. Grand Laddie (T. Treichel) was a little slow to begin. Grand Laddie over-raced after assuming a position outside the leader midway down the back straight. Tarlee Dancer (G. Baker) cast an off-fore plate in running.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
La Zeel dominated this event.
Never worse than third, Jockey Jim Byrne urged the Les Kelly trained daughter of Zabeel into the lead approaching the home turn, from which point she proceeded to run her rivals ragged.
The favourite, The Sunshine Man, who was very wide on the turn, was the only runner to appear to have any chance with La Zeel halfway up the straight but that soon proved to be little more than an illusion as La Zeel powered home, taking no prisoners.
The winning margin was four lengths.
“She’s just an out and out stayer,” said Kelly. “The further they go, the more she’ll like it.”
La Zeel has only been in the Kelly stable for four runs.
Kelly gave her a freshener first-up over 1000m. He then stepped La Zeel up slowly in distance, first to 1400m and then to 1600m before claiming this success over the 1800m trip.
Jockey Jim Byrne takes up the story.
“It was necessary to race her over those shorter distances,” said Byrne.
“The only trouble with that is that to get her into those races makes her a bit keen.
“I noticed on the way to the start today she wanted to put her head up,” continued Byrne. “I managed to get her to keep her head down.
“That’s what she has to learn still, how to settle. But the good thing is that she wants to learn, and getting her into relaxed mode will come a lot more naturally to her once she gets up to her distance.
“Obviously on breeding she is still looking for more ground, but she really stepped up today."
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
M. Paget the rider of Brosnan’s Gold was reprimanded for allowing his mount to shift in near the 1600m taking The Sunshine Man (App J. Jones) in onto Nassavatte (App M. Hellyer) which had to be steadied. La Zeel (J. Byrne) and Sacred Heart (G. Colless) both raced wide in the early stages. Telestah Las Vistah was held up and unable to obtain clear running in the early stages of the straight.
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Denby gave his supporters a few anxious moments, both at the start and in the finish, but he came good on his promise of his last run to take the honours and claim his second victory from five starts.
“They told me he was an awkward horse to ride in terms of the fact that he was good while he was chasing but did not stay committed when hitting the front,” said jockey Glenn Colless.
“My instructions were to wait as long as I could and then get into him so he didn’t think of stopping,” continued Colless.
“So I followed the script and the race when pretty much to plan.”
Colless did have to ride hard once hitting the front to see off the persistent challenge of Novateur, but Denby did enough to secure victory by a little under half-a-length.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Trainer's representative S. Morrisey was advised that Denby, which proved difficult to load, would require a further barrier certificate prior to racing again. A post race veterinary examination of September revealed the mare to be lame in the near fore leg. Trainer T. Bailey was advised that September will require a veterinary certificate of fitness prior to racing again.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Kane Mochi was all the rage here but he found one too good for him on the day in the form of the Ross Coveney trained Sleek Repeat who outgunned the favourite in a spirited, stride for stride battle to the line under a determined ride from Matthew Paget.
“She’s just such a tough horse you know,” said Paget.
“I knew she would fight all of the way. I just saved it, and saved it and saved it ... so that she would get last 200m.
“That’s why she had something left when the other one came at here. She deserved the win.” (Sleek Repeat had finished runner-up in three of her previous five starts).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Kane Mochi (G. Colless) after making contact with Unconquerable (S. Seamer) at the start, shifted out resulting in Icedane (S. Drake) having to be checked when tightened for room between that horse and Tangler (T. Treichel). My Rendition (R. Wiggins) which was slow to begin had to be steadied shortly after when taken across the heels of Zahite (App M. Hellyer) by Wide Open (T. Pannell) which shifted out when jumping away.When the pace slackened near the 900m Tangler and Zahite both had to be steadied. As a consequence Zahite shifted out taking Wide Open and My Rendition wider on the track. Unconquerable laid out under pressure over the concluding stages.
When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of My Rendition jockey R. Wiggins stated that he had been instructed to ride the horse in a forward position however, after receiving interference at the start he settled further back than he had anticipated. He further added that this resulted in the gelding over-racing. As a consequence he was forced to allow the horse to stride forward wider on the track at the 800m.A post race veterinary examination of My Rendition failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The well-fancied Cradle Rock won on debut for trainer Norm Stephens.
Jockey Todd Pannell pushed Cradle Rock forward at the break and she easily maintained a rail run in the leading line until being asked to so a little more once the field had turned for home.
The was no fireworks but Cradle Rock gradually asserted her authority, producing a sustained effort all the way to the line to win by a comfortable 2,50 length margin.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
D. Bell the trainer of Monashee Diva which proved difficult to load was advised that a warning would be placed on the filly in regard to its barrier manners. Monashee Diva (J. Holder) jumped in the air at the start and lost ground. French Credit and Munster Province were obliged to race wide for the majority of the event. Leaving the 500m Player Run hung out and had to be steadied off the heels of Legal Response (App L. Dittman). Centennial Son (J. Jones) raced greenly in the middle stages and near the 450m improved up onto the heels of Dash’s Princess (App M. Palmer) and had to be steadied. Bibiana was inclined to lay in when placed under pressure in the straight. Approaching the finish line French Credit shifted in abruptly making contact with Easy Kisses which shifted in bumping Go Easy, which then became unbalanced shifting in making contact with Player Run. L. Erhart trainer of French Credit was advised that the horse must trial to the satisfaction of stewards prior to its next race start.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Kelly Doughty trained Varcarme scored a spectacular comeback win, given the circumstances of the horse’s history over the last seventeen months.
“He went through the rail here in training,””explained Gary Doughty taking up the story.
“He fractured his knee. They couldn’t pin it. They couldn’t plate it,” shrugged Doughty, emphasising the hopelessness of the cause as it appeared at the time.
“But we persevered,” continued Doughty.
“He was in a cast for three months. He was in the paddock form ten months, then Kelly spent another three months slowly bringing him back to racing fitness. What a performance!”
Jockey Jason Holder was equally impressed with the run.
“He was always going comfortably, but he didn’t really know what to do,” said Holder.
“He got a bit lost on the turn and I had to give him one or two reminders.
"Then he wanted to duck in again when passing the leader. Even at the line he was still stargazing. He can only get better.”
The ‘Holder Headlines’ have been a little bit quiet in recent times.
“I’ve been taking it a little bit easy. I went back to Adelaide for a visit,” explained Holder.
“But things should start picking up now.”
Take the tip!
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Refinance (App S. Miller) and Propheteer (G. Baker) made contact on several occasions shortly after the start and as a result Propheteer became unbalanced and shifted out making contact with Mapadama (R. McMahon).Refinance raced greenly in the early stages. Leaving the 700m Propheteer commenced to over-race and had to be steadied and moved wider on the track to avoid the heels of Refinance. Propheteer was then obliged to race wide for the remainder of the event. County Tale was held up and unable to obtain clear running in the early stages of the straight. Vacarme (J. Holder) appeared to shy when approaching the finish. A post race veterinary examination of Blackal failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Moulin Lady, a three-year-old daughter of Reset, won with complete authority here to underline the fact that trainer Alan Bailey might just have another lively prospect on his hands.
It was Moulin Lady’s second start and she raced first-up after a five-and-a-half month layoff.
“She was shin-sore when she came to me and she just needed time,” said Bailey.
“She has always shown ability and it was a good, strong showing today.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Delezio (R. McMahon) raced wide for the majority. Mossman Bay (J. Byrne) raced extremely wide for the majority of the event. Jockey A. Pattillo reported that in his opinion Stainglass had failed to handle the rain affected surface today.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Multire Music shortened late in the betting and those who got on got it dead right as the Terry McCarthy trained filly stretched out well to win in decisive fashion.
This was the second win in only four starts for the Mull Of Kintyre filly.
“She won well at Coffs on debut,” said McCarthy.
“Then we tried to ride her back and she over-raced when unplaced at Eagle Farm,” continued McCarthy.
“From there she had three weeks in-between runs. I really couldn’t get a good gallop into her and she stopped and they only got to her in the last 50m last time (on September 3 at Grafton).
“I took the punt to back her up today and things worked out,” concluded McCarthy.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Love De Cause (B. El-Issa) and Arbuckle (K. Wharton) were both slow to begin. Near the 400m Love De Cause shifted in momentarily tightening the running of Malesia (R. Wiggins) and Arbuckle. Arbuckle was inclined to lay in when placed under pressure in the straight. Love De Cause shifted in when placed under pressure in the straight. A post race veterinary examination of Arbuckle failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
This was one of the occasions where the favourite made no mistake in a small field.
The Richie Stephenson trained Tarlee Dancer was never troubled under confident handling by jockey Garry Baker and the chestnut duly won by a clear-cut 4,00 length margin.
“He was just short of a run last time,” volunteered Baker.
“With the benefit of that run behind him, and then fact that he likes soft going, everything went his way today and he finished off well.
“I wish there were more who could come back as easy as that.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Falzig which suffered an injury at the stables was declared a late scratching at 12.54 p.m. by order of stewards acting on veterinary advice. Grand Laddie (T. Treichel) was a little slow to begin. Grand Laddie over-raced after assuming a position outside the leader midway down the back straight. Tarlee Dancer (G. Baker) cast an off-fore plate in running.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
La Zeel dominated this event.
Never worse than third, Jockey Jim Byrne urged the Les Kelly trained daughter of Zabeel into the lead approaching the home turn, from which point she proceeded to run her rivals ragged.
The favourite, The Sunshine Man, who was very wide on the turn, was the only runner to appear to have any chance with La Zeel halfway up the straight but that soon proved to be little more than an illusion as La Zeel powered home, taking no prisoners.
The winning margin was four lengths.
“She’s just an out and out stayer,” said Kelly. “The further they go, the more she’ll like it.”
La Zeel has only been in the Kelly stable for four runs.
Kelly gave her a freshener first-up over 1000m. He then stepped La Zeel up slowly in distance, first to 1400m and then to 1600m before claiming this success over the 1800m trip.
Jockey Jim Byrne takes up the story.
“It was necessary to race her over those shorter distances,” said Byrne.
“The only trouble with that is that to get her into those races makes her a bit keen.
“I noticed on the way to the start today she wanted to put her head up,” continued Byrne. “I managed to get her to keep her head down.
“That’s what she has to learn still, how to settle. But the good thing is that she wants to learn, and getting her into relaxed mode will come a lot more naturally to her once she gets up to her distance.
“Obviously on breeding she is still looking for more ground, but she really stepped up today."
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
M. Paget the rider of Brosnan’s Gold was reprimanded for allowing his mount to shift in near the 1600m taking The Sunshine Man (App J. Jones) in onto Nassavatte (App M. Hellyer) which had to be steadied. La Zeel (J. Byrne) and Sacred Heart (G. Colless) both raced wide in the early stages. Telestah Las Vistah was held up and unable to obtain clear running in the early stages of the straight.
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Denby gave his supporters a few anxious moments, both at the start and in the finish, but he came good on his promise of his last run to take the honours and claim his second victory from five starts.
“They told me he was an awkward horse to ride in terms of the fact that he was good while he was chasing but did not stay committed when hitting the front,” said jockey Glenn Colless.
“My instructions were to wait as long as I could and then get into him so he didn’t think of stopping,” continued Colless.
“So I followed the script and the race when pretty much to plan.”
Colless did have to ride hard once hitting the front to see off the persistent challenge of Novateur, but Denby did enough to secure victory by a little under half-a-length.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Trainer's representative S. Morrisey was advised that Denby, which proved difficult to load, would require a further barrier certificate prior to racing again. A post race veterinary examination of September revealed the mare to be lame in the near fore leg. Trainer T. Bailey was advised that September will require a veterinary certificate of fitness prior to racing again.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Kane Mochi was all the rage here but he found one too good for him on the day in the form of the Ross Coveney trained Sleek Repeat who outgunned the favourite in a spirited, stride for stride battle to the line under a determined ride from Matthew Paget.
“She’s just such a tough horse you know,” said Paget.
“I knew she would fight all of the way. I just saved it, and saved it and saved it ... so that she would get last 200m.
“That’s why she had something left when the other one came at here. She deserved the win.” (Sleek Repeat had finished runner-up in three of her previous five starts).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Kane Mochi (G. Colless) after making contact with Unconquerable (S. Seamer) at the start, shifted out resulting in Icedane (S. Drake) having to be checked when tightened for room between that horse and Tangler (T. Treichel). My Rendition (R. Wiggins) which was slow to begin had to be steadied shortly after when taken across the heels of Zahite (App M. Hellyer) by Wide Open (T. Pannell) which shifted out when jumping away.When the pace slackened near the 900m Tangler and Zahite both had to be steadied. As a consequence Zahite shifted out taking Wide Open and My Rendition wider on the track. Unconquerable laid out under pressure over the concluding stages.
When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of My Rendition jockey R. Wiggins stated that he had been instructed to ride the horse in a forward position however, after receiving interference at the start he settled further back than he had anticipated. He further added that this resulted in the gelding over-racing. As a consequence he was forced to allow the horse to stride forward wider on the track at the 800m.A post race veterinary examination of My Rendition failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
SEAN CORMACK'S FUTURE IN LIMBO
Jockey Sean Cormack is currently riding on a wing and a prayer as he awaits news from the Department of Immigration which will decide his future in Australia.
The news will come in two parts.
Firstly, a decision is due soon with regard to Cormack’s application to extend his work permit for three months.
The South African rider originally relocated to Queensland in mid-year to be stable rider for Bruce McLachlan at the Sunshine Coast.
If that application gets a positive result, it will take Cormack safely through to December, which is around about the time when he hopes the bigger issue, his application for permanent residency in Australia, might be decided.
“It is difficult,” said Cormack. “In fact it sometimes it can be a huge distraction because the uncertainty obviously also impacts on my wife and family.
“All I can do is try to go about my business as if I have got permanent residence ... as if my future is here,” continued Cormack. “That way at least I stay focussed.
“I’m trying to build something from scratch even though, as it stands now, I don’t know if I be allowed to ride here next month, or even if I can ride then, whether I will be granted permanent resident status to further my career here next year.
“So it is a bit of a long haul,” continued Cormack, “but I am committed to making it here and will do everything I can to help the decision come down in my favour.”
Cormack left a great deal behind in South Africa in search of a better life for his young family – not least, a hard-earned place near the top of his profession in that country.
“I was flying there career-wise,” acknowledged Cormack, “and I would be lying if I said it was an easy decision to leave.
“I had second thoughts a few times realising that I would have to prove myself all over again, but once the decision was made to seek a better life in Australia, that was it.
“My focus is only on one outcome. That is to pursue my career here.”
Some have suggested that Cormack find a sponsor in racing, which would allow him to stay in Australia long-term, but that option is not currently available as the Department of Immigration will only consider one application at a time, and Cormack’s application for permanent residence has already been lodged and is under consideration.
But while it might all be about the wait, Cormack does not believe in wasting time.
While these important matters have been hanging over Cormack’s head, the rider has stayed focussed and gone about establishing his credentials on various fronts.
Cormack’s solid work ethic and his friendly manner helped him clear his first hurdle – that of finding acceptance within the local racing fraternity - with ease.
“It’s been easy fitting in and understanding what is required of you in terms of the training systems and work riding aspects,” explained Cormack.
“There are systems and routines in place which are easy to follow.
“It’s been a steeper learning curve in terms of settling into race riding,” continued Cormack, which is entirely understandable having changed countries.
“The riding styles, the race tempo, getting to know Bruce’s horses, beyond that knowing which trainers work their horses hard so you can ask them to stretch out, knowing which trainers are softer on their horses so you know when to back off, just learning about the cushion track where I ride a lot of work – all of these things are part of a learning process.
“Any decent jockey will make the adjustments that are needed, but that process isn’t completed overnight.”
Every win, such as his success on Release Me in a pressurised finish at Eagle Farm on Saturday, is a prize for Cormack as it elevates his profile, even if just for those fifteen minutes of fame, and also provides him the satisfaction that there is some reward for all of his hard work.
His predicament is one which would leave a lesser man down in spirits, but Cormack has never bemoaned the fact that one of the biggest decisions that will affect his life, is entirely out of his hands.
“I’ve had help in getting this far,” noted Cormack.
“The support from my wife and family goes without saying, but I also have to mention Glynn Schofield (a fellow South African jockey riding in Sydney). He has been so helpful.
“I actually can’t tell you how good he has been to me, how much he has helped me.”
Irrespective of who is standing behind him, Cormack has already proved his own mental toughness.
His riding record in South Africa underlines what a force he might become if allowed a free rein.
With jockey numbers declining in Australia in recent years, it is to be hoped that the official at the Department of Immigration who has the file marked S.Cormack, in the spirit of giving everyone who deserves it a fair go, is able to read form well enough to pick a winner and approve Cormack’s application for permanent residency.
Until then, the future of this hard-working rider remains in limbo.
The news will come in two parts.
Firstly, a decision is due soon with regard to Cormack’s application to extend his work permit for three months.
The South African rider originally relocated to Queensland in mid-year to be stable rider for Bruce McLachlan at the Sunshine Coast.
If that application gets a positive result, it will take Cormack safely through to December, which is around about the time when he hopes the bigger issue, his application for permanent residency in Australia, might be decided.
“It is difficult,” said Cormack. “In fact it sometimes it can be a huge distraction because the uncertainty obviously also impacts on my wife and family.
“All I can do is try to go about my business as if I have got permanent residence ... as if my future is here,” continued Cormack. “That way at least I stay focussed.
“I’m trying to build something from scratch even though, as it stands now, I don’t know if I be allowed to ride here next month, or even if I can ride then, whether I will be granted permanent resident status to further my career here next year.
“So it is a bit of a long haul,” continued Cormack, “but I am committed to making it here and will do everything I can to help the decision come down in my favour.”
Cormack left a great deal behind in South Africa in search of a better life for his young family – not least, a hard-earned place near the top of his profession in that country.
“I was flying there career-wise,” acknowledged Cormack, “and I would be lying if I said it was an easy decision to leave.
“I had second thoughts a few times realising that I would have to prove myself all over again, but once the decision was made to seek a better life in Australia, that was it.
“My focus is only on one outcome. That is to pursue my career here.”
Some have suggested that Cormack find a sponsor in racing, which would allow him to stay in Australia long-term, but that option is not currently available as the Department of Immigration will only consider one application at a time, and Cormack’s application for permanent residence has already been lodged and is under consideration.
But while it might all be about the wait, Cormack does not believe in wasting time.
While these important matters have been hanging over Cormack’s head, the rider has stayed focussed and gone about establishing his credentials on various fronts.
Cormack’s solid work ethic and his friendly manner helped him clear his first hurdle – that of finding acceptance within the local racing fraternity - with ease.
“It’s been easy fitting in and understanding what is required of you in terms of the training systems and work riding aspects,” explained Cormack.
“There are systems and routines in place which are easy to follow.
“It’s been a steeper learning curve in terms of settling into race riding,” continued Cormack, which is entirely understandable having changed countries.
“The riding styles, the race tempo, getting to know Bruce’s horses, beyond that knowing which trainers work their horses hard so you can ask them to stretch out, knowing which trainers are softer on their horses so you know when to back off, just learning about the cushion track where I ride a lot of work – all of these things are part of a learning process.
“Any decent jockey will make the adjustments that are needed, but that process isn’t completed overnight.”
Every win, such as his success on Release Me in a pressurised finish at Eagle Farm on Saturday, is a prize for Cormack as it elevates his profile, even if just for those fifteen minutes of fame, and also provides him the satisfaction that there is some reward for all of his hard work.
His predicament is one which would leave a lesser man down in spirits, but Cormack has never bemoaned the fact that one of the biggest decisions that will affect his life, is entirely out of his hands.
“I’ve had help in getting this far,” noted Cormack.
“The support from my wife and family goes without saying, but I also have to mention Glynn Schofield (a fellow South African jockey riding in Sydney). He has been so helpful.
“I actually can’t tell you how good he has been to me, how much he has helped me.”
Irrespective of who is standing behind him, Cormack has already proved his own mental toughness.
His riding record in South Africa underlines what a force he might become if allowed a free rein.
With jockey numbers declining in Australia in recent years, it is to be hoped that the official at the Department of Immigration who has the file marked S.Cormack, in the spirit of giving everyone who deserves it a fair go, is able to read form well enough to pick a winner and approve Cormack’s application for permanent residency.
Until then, the future of this hard-working rider remains in limbo.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
ALL THE ACTION FROM THE SUNSHINE COAST
A reveiw of the meeting held at the Sunshine Coast on Sunday, September 7.
Race1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Kevin Keidge must have been smiling.
Keidge, who passed away last month after a short battle with illness, was the former trainer of Mymysherona who took out the opening event on the card.
“The only reason I have the horse is because of Kevin’s illness,” said trainer Col Parker.
“We are just keeping up his good work honestly,” said Parker. “He just didn’t have the time to give it a couple of runs over more ground. That’s all she needed.”
Apprentice jockey Michael Hellyer was rapt with the win.
“She’s still so green,” said Hellyer, “but we knew that from her work.
“She’s still learning and is a bit of a difficult ride because of that,” continued Hellyer.
“But one good thing is she does relax. She falls asleep in the race, but responds when you ask her. Like a say, she’s still learning.
“She’s going to win a lot more races.”
I suggested Hellyer should try and keep the ride then.
“My boss won’t take me off,” answered Hellyer with a smile.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Mymysherona raced greenly in the early stages. When the pace slackened near the 900m, Copernica (S. Cormack) improved up on to the heels of Indiofera (K. Wharton) and had to be steadied. Indigofera (K. Wharton) hung out on the turn near the 800 and continued to do so for the remainder of the race. Cash Fortune (B. El-Issa) was inclined to shift out under pressure in the straight and near the 150m shifted out, inconveniencing Montazoa.
When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of Montazoa, jockey S. Galloway stated that, in his opinion, the gelding, which was up in weight today, failed to run out the 1400 metre distance of today's event. A post-race veterinary examination of Montazoa failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
“Must be a good horse for you to win on him,” joked trainer Frank Phillips, talking to apprentice jockey Owen Turpin.
The horse Phillips was referring to was Raining Kings, who shed his Maiden ticket at his twenty-fourth start.
It was Raining Kings second run over 1600m and he won with something in hand after a no-nonsense, rails hugging ride by Turpin.
Did the 1600m trip made the difference?
“I’d like to say ‘yes’, but I don’t know about that,” answered Phillips.
“I must say that Kylie Cunningham had the ride last time and she came back and said the 1600m suits the horse. She said she just couldn’t get a run and that he would win next time. So she was right.
“It might have taken him a lot of runs to win, but he has brought in enough money to pay the bills,” continued Phillips.
“I would say though that he has limited ability and might struggle to win a Class 1.”
“The other thing I need to say is that Raining Kings has got the worst bunch of owners that a trainer has ever had to deal with,” said Phillips, again with the twinkle in the eye as the owners smiled broadly behind him.
For Turpin, the race game-plan was a simple one.
“I was always going to go down the rail,” said Turpin. “That’s where the first race winner scored.
“They fan out here. They always do it ... but they forgot the rail was out today so the best going was on the rail itself.
“He did beat an average bunch though, but all you can do is win,” concluded Turpin.
Raining Kings was the first leg of a double on the day for both trainer and rider.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Regal George (M. Morris) raced keenly in the early stages. The Ultimate Act (A. Merritt) raced fiercely for some distance passing the 1200m, and was then obliged to race wide from that point.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Guissepino scored first-up after a five month layoff in her first outing for the Liam Birchley yard.
“She went back to the 1000m because of the layoff, “explained Birchley.
“She couldn’t really go anywhere in the running being caught three wide without any cover for part of the trip.
"She finished off well when given the chance though.”
Jockey Ryan Wiggins described the finish of the race.
“They left me a little bit of a gap and she really lengthened her stride well,” said Wiggins. “She was feeling it a bit in the last strides but that’s understandable first-up.”
This was the Falvelon mare’s second win from seven starts.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Princes Ginachenka (S. Galloway) raced greenly for some distance near the 600m. Passing the 200m, Princes Ginachenka had to be steadied and shifted wider on the track to obtain clear running. Emgee Em Grand (A. Spinks) raced wide throughout.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
It might only have been a Maiden at the Sunshine Coast but trainer Troy Hall is now part of an exclusive club of trainers who have won a race named after themselves.
It was General Purple who saluted for Hall in the Troy Hall Leading Strike Rate Trainer Handicap, and he did so in decisive fashion.
All of General Purple’s previous four starts were in the city and that form simply proved to be too strong for his rivals here.
“He has plenty of ability,” offered Hall, “but he is still a bit immature upstairs. He’s going to make a very nice horse.”
Jockey Ryan Wiggins was aboard General Purple, giving the rider back to back wins after his success on Guissepino one race earlier.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Renegade Dancer (M. Hughes) raced greenly for some distance near the 1000m. Passing the 200m, Cash On Arrival (C. Whiteley) was inconvenienced when racing to the inside of Smartness (S. Cormack), which shifted in abruptly. Cash On Arrival (C. Whiteley) raced wide throughout.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Apprentice Owen Turpin completed a double with a faultless ride on the Peter Blackwell trained Fortunatus Fidelis.
“Peter just said to me to be aware that he is pretty much a one-pace horse,” said Turpin.
“He said I could do what I wanted with the horse, as long as I took into account he wasn’t going to accelerate away from them.
“So I decided to go forward and let him roll and put him in a position where he could win ... and he just kept going to the line.”
Fortunatus Fidelis was the longest priced winner on the day.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Near the 1200m, Media Fund (S. Galloway) had to be steadied when crowded for room by Paraja (A. Spinks), which shifted in when not clear. S. Spinks, rider of Paraja, was reprimanded. See The Flames (M. Hughes) raced keenly for some distance near the 1200m.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The old racing adage, ‘the smaller the field, the bigger the upset,’ again rang true in this four horse contest.
Three runners were fairly close together in the betting. One runner, Grab The Phone, was clearly the outsider of the group. Grab The Phone won.
In fact, Grab The Phone won untroubled after being allowed a soft lead up front and being subjected to little pressure in the straight, courtesy of a perfectly rated ride by jockey Chris Whiteley.
“I’ve ridden him about seven times and I know the horse well,” said Whiteley. “Had a bit of success with him too.
“I know he likes to lead and so I just him do his thing until the straight,” continued Whiteley.
“The tempo picked up from there.
"When I saw Grecolo (the favourite) drop off I though, gee we might have a chance here. I wasn’t worried about Court Adjourned, but I knew Watchyerback would come on.
“We just kept kicking and got there.”
Eden Petrie, stable foreman for Dale Sutton, takes up the story.
“We had him right before EI but since then we’ve had so much trouble with his feet,” said Petrie. “That’s why we had the bar plates back on again.
“Apart from that, match fitness was also a worry (Grab The Phone was returning from a twenty month layoff) but Chris (Whiteley) rode him beautifully and they got the job done.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Court Adjourned (S. Cormack) was momentarily held up on straightening. Grecolo(R. McMahon) was inclined to hang out under pressure in the home straight and near the 150m shifted out, inconveniencing Court Adjourned (S. Cormack).
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Frank Phillips completed a double on the day when Plenty Of Practise outgunned Lachlan Valley in the chase to the line, under a strong ride from Scott Galloway, to score for the third time in eleven starts.
“I thought he’d run better race in town last time,” said Phillips. “I couldn’t find a reason for that disappointment so I thought I’d bring him back here again.
“Now we are none the wiser as to what was wrong because he has won well today.”
Nice way to resolve a problem.
“And we are the second worst group of owners Frank has,” said one of Plenty Of Practise’s owners as he walked by on his way the room where club officials take every winning owner for a celebratory drink.
Frank Phillips watched his winning owners enter the room, then he turned to his fellow trainer Paddy Cunningham and said mischievously, “Have you been in there today yet? It’s my second time.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Near the 900m, Blueberry Star (A. Spinks) improved up on to the heels of Plenty Of Practise (S. Galloway) and had to be steadied. Blueberry Star was inclined to shift out under pressure in the straight. Smiley Jack (B. Pengelly) shifted in under pressure in the straight.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
It was welcome back Jason Taylor time as the jockey guided Ice Delight to a well deserved victory.
This was Taylor’s first win since resuming riding after being sidelined from an injury sustained in a fall when Ben Hur crashed through the rail when leading at Doomben on August 16.
Ice Delight, a four-year-old mare by Monashee Mountain, confirmed that she has fair potential by winning for the second time in her last three starts.
She came back like any good favourite should, to the joy of her owners whose happy arrival at the winners’ enclosure clearly showed just how much they are enjoying the journey.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Social Pass (T. Pannell) shifted in and bumped Lady Illusion (C. Reith) near the 700m. Hot Pride (R. McMahon) had some difficulty obtaining clear running over the concluding stages. Social Pass (T. Pannell) raced wide throughout.
When questioned regarding the performance of Social Pass, T. Pannell stated that passing the 800m his saddle slipped, placing him at a disadvantage for the remainder of the event. A post-race veterinary examination of Lady Illusion revealed the mare to be sore in front. Trainer B. Brown was advised that a veterinary certificate would be required prior to its next race start.
Race1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Kevin Keidge must have been smiling.
Keidge, who passed away last month after a short battle with illness, was the former trainer of Mymysherona who took out the opening event on the card.
“The only reason I have the horse is because of Kevin’s illness,” said trainer Col Parker.
“We are just keeping up his good work honestly,” said Parker. “He just didn’t have the time to give it a couple of runs over more ground. That’s all she needed.”
Apprentice jockey Michael Hellyer was rapt with the win.
“She’s still so green,” said Hellyer, “but we knew that from her work.
“She’s still learning and is a bit of a difficult ride because of that,” continued Hellyer.
“But one good thing is she does relax. She falls asleep in the race, but responds when you ask her. Like a say, she’s still learning.
“She’s going to win a lot more races.”
I suggested Hellyer should try and keep the ride then.
“My boss won’t take me off,” answered Hellyer with a smile.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Mymysherona raced greenly in the early stages. When the pace slackened near the 900m, Copernica (S. Cormack) improved up on to the heels of Indiofera (K. Wharton) and had to be steadied. Indigofera (K. Wharton) hung out on the turn near the 800 and continued to do so for the remainder of the race. Cash Fortune (B. El-Issa) was inclined to shift out under pressure in the straight and near the 150m shifted out, inconveniencing Montazoa.
When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of Montazoa, jockey S. Galloway stated that, in his opinion, the gelding, which was up in weight today, failed to run out the 1400 metre distance of today's event. A post-race veterinary examination of Montazoa failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
“Must be a good horse for you to win on him,” joked trainer Frank Phillips, talking to apprentice jockey Owen Turpin.
The horse Phillips was referring to was Raining Kings, who shed his Maiden ticket at his twenty-fourth start.
It was Raining Kings second run over 1600m and he won with something in hand after a no-nonsense, rails hugging ride by Turpin.
Did the 1600m trip made the difference?
“I’d like to say ‘yes’, but I don’t know about that,” answered Phillips.
“I must say that Kylie Cunningham had the ride last time and she came back and said the 1600m suits the horse. She said she just couldn’t get a run and that he would win next time. So she was right.
“It might have taken him a lot of runs to win, but he has brought in enough money to pay the bills,” continued Phillips.
“I would say though that he has limited ability and might struggle to win a Class 1.”
“The other thing I need to say is that Raining Kings has got the worst bunch of owners that a trainer has ever had to deal with,” said Phillips, again with the twinkle in the eye as the owners smiled broadly behind him.
For Turpin, the race game-plan was a simple one.
“I was always going to go down the rail,” said Turpin. “That’s where the first race winner scored.
“They fan out here. They always do it ... but they forgot the rail was out today so the best going was on the rail itself.
“He did beat an average bunch though, but all you can do is win,” concluded Turpin.
Raining Kings was the first leg of a double on the day for both trainer and rider.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Regal George (M. Morris) raced keenly in the early stages. The Ultimate Act (A. Merritt) raced fiercely for some distance passing the 1200m, and was then obliged to race wide from that point.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Guissepino scored first-up after a five month layoff in her first outing for the Liam Birchley yard.
“She went back to the 1000m because of the layoff, “explained Birchley.
“She couldn’t really go anywhere in the running being caught three wide without any cover for part of the trip.
"She finished off well when given the chance though.”
Jockey Ryan Wiggins described the finish of the race.
“They left me a little bit of a gap and she really lengthened her stride well,” said Wiggins. “She was feeling it a bit in the last strides but that’s understandable first-up.”
This was the Falvelon mare’s second win from seven starts.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Princes Ginachenka (S. Galloway) raced greenly for some distance near the 600m. Passing the 200m, Princes Ginachenka had to be steadied and shifted wider on the track to obtain clear running. Emgee Em Grand (A. Spinks) raced wide throughout.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
It might only have been a Maiden at the Sunshine Coast but trainer Troy Hall is now part of an exclusive club of trainers who have won a race named after themselves.
It was General Purple who saluted for Hall in the Troy Hall Leading Strike Rate Trainer Handicap, and he did so in decisive fashion.
All of General Purple’s previous four starts were in the city and that form simply proved to be too strong for his rivals here.
“He has plenty of ability,” offered Hall, “but he is still a bit immature upstairs. He’s going to make a very nice horse.”
Jockey Ryan Wiggins was aboard General Purple, giving the rider back to back wins after his success on Guissepino one race earlier.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Renegade Dancer (M. Hughes) raced greenly for some distance near the 1000m. Passing the 200m, Cash On Arrival (C. Whiteley) was inconvenienced when racing to the inside of Smartness (S. Cormack), which shifted in abruptly. Cash On Arrival (C. Whiteley) raced wide throughout.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Apprentice Owen Turpin completed a double with a faultless ride on the Peter Blackwell trained Fortunatus Fidelis.
“Peter just said to me to be aware that he is pretty much a one-pace horse,” said Turpin.
“He said I could do what I wanted with the horse, as long as I took into account he wasn’t going to accelerate away from them.
“So I decided to go forward and let him roll and put him in a position where he could win ... and he just kept going to the line.”
Fortunatus Fidelis was the longest priced winner on the day.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Near the 1200m, Media Fund (S. Galloway) had to be steadied when crowded for room by Paraja (A. Spinks), which shifted in when not clear. S. Spinks, rider of Paraja, was reprimanded. See The Flames (M. Hughes) raced keenly for some distance near the 1200m.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The old racing adage, ‘the smaller the field, the bigger the upset,’ again rang true in this four horse contest.
Three runners were fairly close together in the betting. One runner, Grab The Phone, was clearly the outsider of the group. Grab The Phone won.
In fact, Grab The Phone won untroubled after being allowed a soft lead up front and being subjected to little pressure in the straight, courtesy of a perfectly rated ride by jockey Chris Whiteley.
“I’ve ridden him about seven times and I know the horse well,” said Whiteley. “Had a bit of success with him too.
“I know he likes to lead and so I just him do his thing until the straight,” continued Whiteley.
“The tempo picked up from there.
"When I saw Grecolo (the favourite) drop off I though, gee we might have a chance here. I wasn’t worried about Court Adjourned, but I knew Watchyerback would come on.
“We just kept kicking and got there.”
Eden Petrie, stable foreman for Dale Sutton, takes up the story.
“We had him right before EI but since then we’ve had so much trouble with his feet,” said Petrie. “That’s why we had the bar plates back on again.
“Apart from that, match fitness was also a worry (Grab The Phone was returning from a twenty month layoff) but Chris (Whiteley) rode him beautifully and they got the job done.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Court Adjourned (S. Cormack) was momentarily held up on straightening. Grecolo(R. McMahon) was inclined to hang out under pressure in the home straight and near the 150m shifted out, inconveniencing Court Adjourned (S. Cormack).
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Frank Phillips completed a double on the day when Plenty Of Practise outgunned Lachlan Valley in the chase to the line, under a strong ride from Scott Galloway, to score for the third time in eleven starts.
“I thought he’d run better race in town last time,” said Phillips. “I couldn’t find a reason for that disappointment so I thought I’d bring him back here again.
“Now we are none the wiser as to what was wrong because he has won well today.”
Nice way to resolve a problem.
“And we are the second worst group of owners Frank has,” said one of Plenty Of Practise’s owners as he walked by on his way the room where club officials take every winning owner for a celebratory drink.
Frank Phillips watched his winning owners enter the room, then he turned to his fellow trainer Paddy Cunningham and said mischievously, “Have you been in there today yet? It’s my second time.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Near the 900m, Blueberry Star (A. Spinks) improved up on to the heels of Plenty Of Practise (S. Galloway) and had to be steadied. Blueberry Star was inclined to shift out under pressure in the straight. Smiley Jack (B. Pengelly) shifted in under pressure in the straight.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
It was welcome back Jason Taylor time as the jockey guided Ice Delight to a well deserved victory.
This was Taylor’s first win since resuming riding after being sidelined from an injury sustained in a fall when Ben Hur crashed through the rail when leading at Doomben on August 16.
Ice Delight, a four-year-old mare by Monashee Mountain, confirmed that she has fair potential by winning for the second time in her last three starts.
She came back like any good favourite should, to the joy of her owners whose happy arrival at the winners’ enclosure clearly showed just how much they are enjoying the journey.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Social Pass (T. Pannell) shifted in and bumped Lady Illusion (C. Reith) near the 700m. Hot Pride (R. McMahon) had some difficulty obtaining clear running over the concluding stages. Social Pass (T. Pannell) raced wide throughout.
When questioned regarding the performance of Social Pass, T. Pannell stated that passing the 800m his saddle slipped, placing him at a disadvantage for the remainder of the event. A post-race veterinary examination of Lady Illusion revealed the mare to be sore in front. Trainer B. Brown was advised that a veterinary certificate would be required prior to its next race start.
Monday, September 8, 2008
BOBBY EL-ISSA - IN HIS OWN WORDS
When the first month of the new season came to an end and Bobby El-Issa’s name was on top of the Jockey’s Premiership, I thought it would be an opportune time to get his point of view on his life in racing.
Certainly there have always been enough stories and commentary doing the rounds among race-goers about the life and times of Bobby El-Issa – much of it negative - but never any direct comment from the man himself.
I have no brief with El-Issa, for or against, but, in fairness, I thought he deserved the opportunity to address some of those issues.
So I asked El-Issa for an interview, which he granted.
It is important to note that the interview was completed before the unfortunate events of the last week, which have once again propelled El-Issa’s name into the headlines.
None of his commentary is therefore in any way related to any charges laid or investigations currently under way into his riding over the last seven days - and it is important to note that fact.
In the knowledge that El-Issa has such a polarising effect on the racing fraternity, the following piece is purposely published in El-Issa’s own words, without any other commentary, to ensure that it remains true to the essence of the interview.
Here it is then, in its original form, Horse Racing Only’s exclusive interview with Bobby El-Issa.
Love him or hate him, support him or dismiss him, believe him or disbelieve his words ... it’s all the same to Bobby El-Issa. At best he is a free spirit. At worst he is out of control. The views expressed here have never been published before. It is the view from El-Issa’s own perspective, in his own words.
El-Issa on winning:
“People are calling me and asking ‘what’s happened, what changed’, just because I’m suddenly riding more winners.
“They sort of imply that I must have made some drastic change in my lifestyle or something, which is nonsense.
“I’m riding the same as I always have ... but it’s all got to do with the cattle. I’m just riding better cattle. All your results depend on the cattle.
“I have changed managers, so that would be the change people are looking for. I started with a management group about a month ago.
"They are very good guys. They have a better rapport with the owners and some other trainers than I have, that’s why the better rides are rolling in ... and that’s the only reason I getting more winners. I’m riding the same as I always have, just getting better cattle”
El-Issa on his riding strengths:
“Like a lot of things in life, riding is a confidence game and I’ve never been short of that.
“Sure the winners help but I believe I’m in the top three in terms of the best lightweight jockeys in Australia and I’m also one of the strongest lightweights around.
“I was a champion apprentice, you know. I’ve always been good so confidence has never been a problem for me.”
El-Issa on his disciplinary record:
“That has been a problem for me. It shocking. My record is absolutely shocking.
" I’ve been charged with everything from riding indiscretions, to bad behaviour to, even dress code.
“Does my dress code look bad to you?
“I think I’m never wrong ... ok, I made a mistake with the drug thing, but lots of people have done that.
“I appreciate the stewards have a job to do but I do think that sometimes, whether they realise it or not, they can set themselves up against you and chase you up on every little thing.
“I appealed successfully many times against their findings, I’ve think I’ve won last five times they’ve taken me on. But people always seem to hear about the charge against you and not so much about the appeal verdict. But that’s life.
“Yeah my record is bad though. Can’t change it, and really wouldn’t have changed any of my actions even if I could.”
El-Issa on challenging authority:
“That’s just a perception that people have about me, but I don’t set out on any given day with the intention of giving the stewards a hard time.
“What does happen is, I’m not just going to sit back and cop it if they do come after me.
“There is no reason for me to go and hide away in a box.
"I have a natural reaction to stand up for myself. I’m not going to be an easy target. I have my say back, which not everybody does. That marks me as being different but, like I said, I win a lot of the arguments so why back off without stating your case. I’m just not going to do that.
“You know, and please I don’t mean this badly, but I’m thirty-two years old. I’ve been riding all my life and sometimes I’m faced with a steward, who is twenty something years old and who has never ridden, trying to tell me how to ride.
“In some of those situations, he and his colleagues, are going to decide whether I will be allowed to earn an income for the next couple of weeks.
"I know the stewards have training and all of that, but wouldn’t you find that a frustrating situation. I do ... and sometimes it shows ... but that is just me.
“I don’t find all the off-track stuff a distraction. I’m used to it anyway, but in any case I’m professional enough not to let it affect me.
El-Issa on his acceptance by the greater racing fraternity:
“I get on well with say eight out of every ten people in racing. I should say I’m friendly with eight out of ten people, but I’m not friends with many of those away from the track.
“The issue is those two people who have a problem with me talk about me to others, who then gain a negative opinion of me.
"They don’t even know me at all so why would they formulate a bad opinion of me?
“My friends are not racing people.
"They are footballers and the like, you know, people with lives away from racing who really understand me and accept me for who I am and don’t try to make me fit into some mould.
“I know I’m different to what racing authorities expect.
“What I can’t understand is why racing has to be so serious all of the time. I know it is a serious business and there is a time to be serious, but, all of the time ... come on!
“So I’m different. I like to enjoy life a bit. I’ll smile. I’ll say something offbeat. I act different from the majority ... but why should that make me a target.
"I can’t answer you, but I do know it does.
“Anyway, people better get used to it. I’m pleased I’ve got a bit a character. I’m been this way forever and I’m not going to change for anybody.”
On crowd support:
“Oh, the section of the crowd that sang happy birthday to me at the Sunshine Coast were my mates out for the day. The other day girls wanted a picture with me after a Doomben win. I don’t know who they were.
“Yeah, it is good to have that sort of following. It’s nice to get the crowd involved. I enjoy it when they call out to me when I’m taking a horse out onto the track ... and I can see that other race-goers are enjoying it too.
“That’s what it’s all about isn’t it. Enjoying yourself. That’s what I try to do.”
On the future:
“I know there will always be the doubters out there as to whether I can keep this run going ... or whether I’m good enough ... or whatever. Always have been. Always will be.
"They don’t concern me. Like I said, I’m not going to change for anybody. I’m just going to carry on doing things my way. The future will take care of itself.”
El-Issa currently leads the Brisbane Jockey’s Premiership ladder after the first month of the 2008/09 season.
Well that was the interview given by El-Issa at the end of August, when his future had a bit more of a glow than it does today.
El-Issa’s handling of Miss Twist at Doomben on Wednesday is currently under investigation.
His riding of My First Affair at Eagle Farm on Saturday led him being charged with failing to ride his mount out to the line.
El-Issa was found guilty under rule AR137b. Stewards, in assessing the penalty, were of the opinion that El-Issa’s actions cost My First Affair the race.
El-Issa was suspended for a period of two months.
The Miss Twist issue is still pending.
Certainly there have always been enough stories and commentary doing the rounds among race-goers about the life and times of Bobby El-Issa – much of it negative - but never any direct comment from the man himself.
I have no brief with El-Issa, for or against, but, in fairness, I thought he deserved the opportunity to address some of those issues.
So I asked El-Issa for an interview, which he granted.
It is important to note that the interview was completed before the unfortunate events of the last week, which have once again propelled El-Issa’s name into the headlines.
None of his commentary is therefore in any way related to any charges laid or investigations currently under way into his riding over the last seven days - and it is important to note that fact.
In the knowledge that El-Issa has such a polarising effect on the racing fraternity, the following piece is purposely published in El-Issa’s own words, without any other commentary, to ensure that it remains true to the essence of the interview.
Here it is then, in its original form, Horse Racing Only’s exclusive interview with Bobby El-Issa.
Love him or hate him, support him or dismiss him, believe him or disbelieve his words ... it’s all the same to Bobby El-Issa. At best he is a free spirit. At worst he is out of control. The views expressed here have never been published before. It is the view from El-Issa’s own perspective, in his own words.
El-Issa on winning:
“People are calling me and asking ‘what’s happened, what changed’, just because I’m suddenly riding more winners.
“They sort of imply that I must have made some drastic change in my lifestyle or something, which is nonsense.
“I’m riding the same as I always have ... but it’s all got to do with the cattle. I’m just riding better cattle. All your results depend on the cattle.
“I have changed managers, so that would be the change people are looking for. I started with a management group about a month ago.
"They are very good guys. They have a better rapport with the owners and some other trainers than I have, that’s why the better rides are rolling in ... and that’s the only reason I getting more winners. I’m riding the same as I always have, just getting better cattle”
El-Issa on his riding strengths:
“Like a lot of things in life, riding is a confidence game and I’ve never been short of that.
“Sure the winners help but I believe I’m in the top three in terms of the best lightweight jockeys in Australia and I’m also one of the strongest lightweights around.
“I was a champion apprentice, you know. I’ve always been good so confidence has never been a problem for me.”
El-Issa on his disciplinary record:
“That has been a problem for me. It shocking. My record is absolutely shocking.
" I’ve been charged with everything from riding indiscretions, to bad behaviour to, even dress code.
“Does my dress code look bad to you?
“I think I’m never wrong ... ok, I made a mistake with the drug thing, but lots of people have done that.
“I appreciate the stewards have a job to do but I do think that sometimes, whether they realise it or not, they can set themselves up against you and chase you up on every little thing.
“I appealed successfully many times against their findings, I’ve think I’ve won last five times they’ve taken me on. But people always seem to hear about the charge against you and not so much about the appeal verdict. But that’s life.
“Yeah my record is bad though. Can’t change it, and really wouldn’t have changed any of my actions even if I could.”
El-Issa on challenging authority:
“That’s just a perception that people have about me, but I don’t set out on any given day with the intention of giving the stewards a hard time.
“What does happen is, I’m not just going to sit back and cop it if they do come after me.
“There is no reason for me to go and hide away in a box.
"I have a natural reaction to stand up for myself. I’m not going to be an easy target. I have my say back, which not everybody does. That marks me as being different but, like I said, I win a lot of the arguments so why back off without stating your case. I’m just not going to do that.
“You know, and please I don’t mean this badly, but I’m thirty-two years old. I’ve been riding all my life and sometimes I’m faced with a steward, who is twenty something years old and who has never ridden, trying to tell me how to ride.
“In some of those situations, he and his colleagues, are going to decide whether I will be allowed to earn an income for the next couple of weeks.
"I know the stewards have training and all of that, but wouldn’t you find that a frustrating situation. I do ... and sometimes it shows ... but that is just me.
“I don’t find all the off-track stuff a distraction. I’m used to it anyway, but in any case I’m professional enough not to let it affect me.
El-Issa on his acceptance by the greater racing fraternity:
“I get on well with say eight out of every ten people in racing. I should say I’m friendly with eight out of ten people, but I’m not friends with many of those away from the track.
“The issue is those two people who have a problem with me talk about me to others, who then gain a negative opinion of me.
"They don’t even know me at all so why would they formulate a bad opinion of me?
“My friends are not racing people.
"They are footballers and the like, you know, people with lives away from racing who really understand me and accept me for who I am and don’t try to make me fit into some mould.
“I know I’m different to what racing authorities expect.
“What I can’t understand is why racing has to be so serious all of the time. I know it is a serious business and there is a time to be serious, but, all of the time ... come on!
“So I’m different. I like to enjoy life a bit. I’ll smile. I’ll say something offbeat. I act different from the majority ... but why should that make me a target.
"I can’t answer you, but I do know it does.
“Anyway, people better get used to it. I’m pleased I’ve got a bit a character. I’m been this way forever and I’m not going to change for anybody.”
On crowd support:
“Oh, the section of the crowd that sang happy birthday to me at the Sunshine Coast were my mates out for the day. The other day girls wanted a picture with me after a Doomben win. I don’t know who they were.
“Yeah, it is good to have that sort of following. It’s nice to get the crowd involved. I enjoy it when they call out to me when I’m taking a horse out onto the track ... and I can see that other race-goers are enjoying it too.
“That’s what it’s all about isn’t it. Enjoying yourself. That’s what I try to do.”
On the future:
“I know there will always be the doubters out there as to whether I can keep this run going ... or whether I’m good enough ... or whatever. Always have been. Always will be.
"They don’t concern me. Like I said, I’m not going to change for anybody. I’m just going to carry on doing things my way. The future will take care of itself.”
El-Issa currently leads the Brisbane Jockey’s Premiership ladder after the first month of the 2008/09 season.
Well that was the interview given by El-Issa at the end of August, when his future had a bit more of a glow than it does today.
El-Issa’s handling of Miss Twist at Doomben on Wednesday is currently under investigation.
His riding of My First Affair at Eagle Farm on Saturday led him being charged with failing to ride his mount out to the line.
El-Issa was found guilty under rule AR137b. Stewards, in assessing the penalty, were of the opinion that El-Issa’s actions cost My First Affair the race.
El-Issa was suspended for a period of two months.
The Miss Twist issue is still pending.
ALL THE ACTION FROM EAGLE FARM
A review of the meeting held at Eagle Farm on Saturday, September 6.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
It is hard to believe, but it is true.
Peter Mitchell, who has been active as an owner in Australia and New Zealand for many years, most notably with the mighty Bonecrusher back in the eighties, had never won a race at Eagle Farm until Double Or Nothin took the opening event on the card.
“I‘m thrilled with the win,” said Mitchell. “To add another track to the list where I’ve owned winners is very satisfying. I’ve won heaps at Doomben but, for some reason, until now I haven’t been able to land one at Eagle Farm.”
Jockey Scott Galloway judged the race correctly after having to change to Plan B shortly after the start.
“I wanted to go forward from the alley and settle about fourth, but I couldn’t get in,” explained Galloway. “So we had to go back (the duo settled in seventh place with only two runners behind them).
“She settled beautifully and then we made our move in the straight.
“It was a good solid win.
“She just loved the going,” added Galloway.
Trainer Brian Smith was quietly happy with the result.
It’s always hard to keep winning, to put a couple of wins together,” said Smith. “She’s got two in a row now which is pretty good.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Daffy, which was found to have blood in its mouth as a result of a dislodged tooth cap, was examined by the club's veterinary surgeon and cleared to start.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The dam of the first race winner, Double Or Nothin, is the Zabeel mare, Unbeleevable, who was represented again in the second race, this time by Scattergun who is also trained by Brian Smith, and also owned by Peter Mitchell.
The double for this winning trio duly arrived when Scattergun kicked clear halfway up the straight and hit the line well, simply carrying too much firepower for the chasing pack which was led by the favourite Fulmonti.
“He travelled beautifully,” said jockey Ric McMahon.
“We lay third then fourth. One went around us (stable companion Lord Rupert) and put a bit of speed into the race and he took it up again well.
“He’s just too good for those sort of horses, particularly on a rain affected track. He’s just too strong,” concluded McMahon.
After such a long wait, Peter Mitchell suddenly had two winners at Eagle Farm.
I asked him about the history of Unbeleevable.
“I bought her as a weanling. I paid $13 000 for her. She was one of the first Zabeel’s to go through the ring in New Zealand.
“She won on her debut over 1400m,” continued Mitchell. “But then one day at Kembla Grange, she broke down so badly we thought that was it. But she has gone on to become a tremendous broodmare for us.”
One question remained to be answered.
Could Unbeleevable help carry Mitchell and Smith to a unique treble on the day with another of her offspring, Blood ‘N’ Bone, contesting the sixth race on the card?
“It would be very nice if Blood ‘N’Bone could win,” answered Mitchell, “but I think he is a bit past his best, to be fair.”
(As Mitchell had sensed, there was to be no hat trick. Blood ‘N’ Bone threaten briefly in the sixth race before finishing out of the placings).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Fulmonti (A. Coome) was held up rounding the home turn and in the early stages of the straight.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Ron Macrae trained Regal Castanea was caught three wide without cover all of the trip but the four-year-old gelding overcame that disadvantage by producing a strong, sustained run in the home straight to score his second successive win at the track.
The win provided jockey Scott Galloway with a double at the meeting. He won earlier on Double Or Nothin.
“They went slowly early and then sprinted away at the top of the straight, said Galloway. “That is why he took some time to pick it up ... that and the strong headwind.
“Once he stretched out though, he did a good job. He’s a good genuine horse.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Notre Amour, which was fractious in its raceday stall, was examined by the club's veterinary surgeon and cleared to race. Near the 250m, Mr Doyle (S. Scriven) was disappointed for a run between Palace Lover (S. Seamer) and Regal Castanea and was obliged to alter course towards the inside, and near the 100m had to be checked when disappointed for a run between Our Magic (J. Byrne) and Notre Amour (K. Wharton) where there was not fully sufficient room. Regal Castanea (S. Galloway) raced 3 wide for the entire race.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Release Me became the third horse on the day to score from a wide barrier when jockey Sean Cormack drove the Bruce McLachlan trained gelding to a narrow win in a pressurised finish.
“We were travelling well and I got a nice split at the top of the straight,” said Cormack, taking us through the race.
“But then the favourite Carnegie Prince, who was on my inside, shifted on to me and pushed me out.
“I lost ground for a moment, but the favourite had actually done me a favour because I now had a good clean run.”
Realease Me picked up ground quickly, but so did Reincarnation, who was even wider than the McLachlan trained runner.
Release Me’s task was now twofold. He had to find the acceleration required to reel in the duelling frontrunners, Aladdins Lion and Count Henry.
At the same time Release Me had to repel the persistent challenge of Reincarnation , who was snapping at his heels.
That he succeeded in doing both bodes well for a future follow-up success.
“Good powerful ride to get up,” quipped Cormack. He was spot on with that assessment.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Base Dancer (E. Wilkinson) raced ungenerously and got its head up rounding the first turn. Millers Wheel (S. Scriven) over-raced in the middle stages. Decibella (B. El-Issa) pull hard and over-raced rounding the first turn.Carnegie Prince (S. Galloway) was held up in the early stages of the straight and when attempting to obtain clear running, shifted out and made contact with Release Me (S Cormack). Near the 250m, Lord Nediym was inclined to shift in under pressure and made contact with Blue Oyster (R. Wiggins). West Of Hollywood raced wide for the entire race.
R. Wiggins, rider of BLUE OYSTER, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that approaching the 100m, he permitted his mount to shift out, which resulted in Deception Bay having to be checked. R. Wiggins was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 8 meetings, to commence at midnight, 10 September, and to expire at midnight, 19 September 2008.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Zero Rock, who had been most impressive when winning by six lengths over 1000m on her debut, was untroubled in making it back to back wins, this time over 1200m.
Jockey Brad Pengelly made maximum use of the filly’s favourable draw and he picked up an easy trail on the leaders before pouncing soon after turning for home, from which moment the race ceased to be a serious contest – although Pengelly had to keep working on Zero Rock all the way to the line as Express Air closed ground late to keep the winner honest.
Trainer Kelso Wood confided that the wet track was a worry going into the race.
“She’s a Danzero filly,” explained Wood. “Danzero’s generally do handle the wet, although some haven’t.
“Zero Rock’s a big striding filly and horses like that don’t have confidence in the wet. She came through well though. Very pleasing.”
Zero Rock only had her first run late in her two year old season and this was her first of her three-year-old campaign.
“There have been no problems. She only started when she did because we were being patient. We were just waiting till she was ready,” concluded Wood.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Zero Rock (B. Pengelly) and Express Air (J. Holder) were inclined to lay in under pressure over the concluding stages. A post race veterinary examination of Brilliantes revealed the filly to be sore in the off-fore leg.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The John Morrisey trained Rockdale was all the rage in this small field of six runners and the Group 1 winner duly obliged – but he had to work a lot harder for victory than many had anticipated.
Morrisey was certainly not one of those who thought Rockdale would cruise in. In fact, he had an entirely more conservative view of Rockdale’s chances going into the contest.
“I didn’t think he would win,” admitted Morrisey.
“He’s not actually three-years-old yet and it is very hard to beat older horses at this stage of the season.
“He’s got the ability for sure, but it was still a big ask. But he produced a big effort.”
Jockey Glen Colless was breathing a bit heavier than he usually does after a race, a fact which confirmed the win had been hard-earned.
“He can do it from the front,” nodded Colless. “He’s one of those horses, when they come up to him (as Victory Flight had done halfway up the straight), he responds.
“I had to get into him a bit going to the line, but he got there,” continued Colless. “It will do him the world of good.”
Morrisey confirmed that Rockdale is booked to leave on Thursday morning for Melbourne where he will target a race in two weeks time.
“I won’t do much with him in the next two weeks,” said Morrisey.
“He’ll have an easy fortnight. We’ll just let him settle in without asking too much of him.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
When the pace eased approaching the 1000m, Hard To Catch had to be steadied off the heels of Bitabiff (S. Seamer).
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
A barnstorming ride by Dean Tanti, supplemented by an oh so brave performance by his mount Eleda, carried the day here by the narrowest of margins in the most controversial of circumstances.
The controversy, relating to Jockey Bobby El-Issa’s ride was resolved in the Stewards room (see Stewards Report Extract) and it overshadowed the effort of Eleda who extended her sweet run of success.
“Not many win five-in-a-row,” pointed out trainer Bryan Guy. “And remember, she was knocked sideways at the top of the turn and had a huge amount of ground to make up in the straight.”
Eleda had taking time to regain her stride after being pushed wide at the top of the straight by Awasi Ougi - but regain her stride she did.
Eleda was fortunate that Awsase Ougi went on with it once she had bullied her way into clear. Instead of further impeding Eleda, Awase Ougi stretched away in front of Eleda and thus became the immediate target in Tanti’s sights.
Awase Ougi was flying and was taking Eleda in her tow.
But even at the 200m, with both of these runners making up ground quickly wide on the track, it still seemed unlikely that Eleda would be able to get to Awase Ougi and, in any event, that result seemed to be of little consequence as they appeared to be too far back to feature in the outcome. (Awase Ougi was ninth and some six lengths off the leader, My First Affair, at the time).
Both runners stuck to their tasks though and powered home, forging into contention close to the line where the result came down to the last couple strides.
My First Affair (El-Issa) had looked all over a winner inside the last 100m but El-Issa, not seeing the fast finishing duo out wide, stopped riding his mount short of the line, just as Eleda got the better of Awsae Ougi and flashed through the finish.
The photo-finish confirmed Eleda as the winner by an official margin of a nose, leaving a highly pumped up Dean Tanti to bring one of his favourite horses back to the winners’ enclosure.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Eleda (D. Tanti) jumped away awkwardly. Pinelope (J. Byrne) was caught 3 wide without cover in the middle stages. Bhagwanita (M. Palmer) and Ms Marju (S. Galloway) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Jockey L. Herne, rider of Awasi Ougi, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that near the 400m she permitted her mount to shift out into the rightful running of Eleda (D. Tanti), causing that horse to be inconvenienced and taken out on to Bhagwanita (M. Palmer). In this incident, Eleda faltered and shifted out. L. Herne was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 7 meetings, to commence at midnight, 6 September, and to expire at midnight, 18 September 2008.
Jockey B. El-Issa, rider of My First Affair, was found guilty of a charge under AR137(b), in that he failed to ride his mount right out to the finish of the race. B. El-Issa was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 2 months, to commence at midnight, 10 September, and to expire at midnight, 10 November 2008. In assessing penalty, stewards were of the opinion that B. El-issa's actions cost My First Affair the race.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Just a guess here, but I suggest Dean Tanti was still riding on the adrenaline left over his Eleda victory.
Whether he was or not, he could not have given the Ron Maund trained Pelltro a more perfect ride.
Turning for home in last place, Tanti opted to take Pelltro down the centre of the track and he never once had to shift even marginally left or right, being fortunate enough to be allowed to follow a straight line to victory.
In the end, the gelding’s sixth career success was achieved by a comfortable two length margin.
“I wasn’t going to go to the outside,” said Tanti. “I knew I’d lose too much ground there.
“He (Pelltro) doesn't seem to quite get the 1200m,”continued Tanti, “but he does like a fast run 1000m where he can get the last crack at them. Just like he did here.”
When last did Tanti have a city double?
“It’s got to be a long time since I rode a city double,” answered Tanti. ‘I’m normally at the Coast.
“Ric’s (McMahon) is the number one rider for my stable. I just take what I can get and I’m very happy with what I got today,” concluded Tanti.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT: Tag (M. Palmer) jumped away awkwardly and missed the start.
Race 1:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
It is hard to believe, but it is true.
Peter Mitchell, who has been active as an owner in Australia and New Zealand for many years, most notably with the mighty Bonecrusher back in the eighties, had never won a race at Eagle Farm until Double Or Nothin took the opening event on the card.
“I‘m thrilled with the win,” said Mitchell. “To add another track to the list where I’ve owned winners is very satisfying. I’ve won heaps at Doomben but, for some reason, until now I haven’t been able to land one at Eagle Farm.”
Jockey Scott Galloway judged the race correctly after having to change to Plan B shortly after the start.
“I wanted to go forward from the alley and settle about fourth, but I couldn’t get in,” explained Galloway. “So we had to go back (the duo settled in seventh place with only two runners behind them).
“She settled beautifully and then we made our move in the straight.
“It was a good solid win.
“She just loved the going,” added Galloway.
Trainer Brian Smith was quietly happy with the result.
It’s always hard to keep winning, to put a couple of wins together,” said Smith. “She’s got two in a row now which is pretty good.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Daffy, which was found to have blood in its mouth as a result of a dislodged tooth cap, was examined by the club's veterinary surgeon and cleared to start.
Race 2:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The dam of the first race winner, Double Or Nothin, is the Zabeel mare, Unbeleevable, who was represented again in the second race, this time by Scattergun who is also trained by Brian Smith, and also owned by Peter Mitchell.
The double for this winning trio duly arrived when Scattergun kicked clear halfway up the straight and hit the line well, simply carrying too much firepower for the chasing pack which was led by the favourite Fulmonti.
“He travelled beautifully,” said jockey Ric McMahon.
“We lay third then fourth. One went around us (stable companion Lord Rupert) and put a bit of speed into the race and he took it up again well.
“He’s just too good for those sort of horses, particularly on a rain affected track. He’s just too strong,” concluded McMahon.
After such a long wait, Peter Mitchell suddenly had two winners at Eagle Farm.
I asked him about the history of Unbeleevable.
“I bought her as a weanling. I paid $13 000 for her. She was one of the first Zabeel’s to go through the ring in New Zealand.
“She won on her debut over 1400m,” continued Mitchell. “But then one day at Kembla Grange, she broke down so badly we thought that was it. But she has gone on to become a tremendous broodmare for us.”
One question remained to be answered.
Could Unbeleevable help carry Mitchell and Smith to a unique treble on the day with another of her offspring, Blood ‘N’ Bone, contesting the sixth race on the card?
“It would be very nice if Blood ‘N’Bone could win,” answered Mitchell, “but I think he is a bit past his best, to be fair.”
(As Mitchell had sensed, there was to be no hat trick. Blood ‘N’ Bone threaten briefly in the sixth race before finishing out of the placings).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Fulmonti (A. Coome) was held up rounding the home turn and in the early stages of the straight.
Race 3:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Ron Macrae trained Regal Castanea was caught three wide without cover all of the trip but the four-year-old gelding overcame that disadvantage by producing a strong, sustained run in the home straight to score his second successive win at the track.
The win provided jockey Scott Galloway with a double at the meeting. He won earlier on Double Or Nothin.
“They went slowly early and then sprinted away at the top of the straight, said Galloway. “That is why he took some time to pick it up ... that and the strong headwind.
“Once he stretched out though, he did a good job. He’s a good genuine horse.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Notre Amour, which was fractious in its raceday stall, was examined by the club's veterinary surgeon and cleared to race. Near the 250m, Mr Doyle (S. Scriven) was disappointed for a run between Palace Lover (S. Seamer) and Regal Castanea and was obliged to alter course towards the inside, and near the 100m had to be checked when disappointed for a run between Our Magic (J. Byrne) and Notre Amour (K. Wharton) where there was not fully sufficient room. Regal Castanea (S. Galloway) raced 3 wide for the entire race.
Race 4:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Release Me became the third horse on the day to score from a wide barrier when jockey Sean Cormack drove the Bruce McLachlan trained gelding to a narrow win in a pressurised finish.
“We were travelling well and I got a nice split at the top of the straight,” said Cormack, taking us through the race.
“But then the favourite Carnegie Prince, who was on my inside, shifted on to me and pushed me out.
“I lost ground for a moment, but the favourite had actually done me a favour because I now had a good clean run.”
Realease Me picked up ground quickly, but so did Reincarnation, who was even wider than the McLachlan trained runner.
Release Me’s task was now twofold. He had to find the acceleration required to reel in the duelling frontrunners, Aladdins Lion and Count Henry.
At the same time Release Me had to repel the persistent challenge of Reincarnation , who was snapping at his heels.
That he succeeded in doing both bodes well for a future follow-up success.
“Good powerful ride to get up,” quipped Cormack. He was spot on with that assessment.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Base Dancer (E. Wilkinson) raced ungenerously and got its head up rounding the first turn. Millers Wheel (S. Scriven) over-raced in the middle stages. Decibella (B. El-Issa) pull hard and over-raced rounding the first turn.Carnegie Prince (S. Galloway) was held up in the early stages of the straight and when attempting to obtain clear running, shifted out and made contact with Release Me (S Cormack). Near the 250m, Lord Nediym was inclined to shift in under pressure and made contact with Blue Oyster (R. Wiggins). West Of Hollywood raced wide for the entire race.
R. Wiggins, rider of BLUE OYSTER, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that approaching the 100m, he permitted his mount to shift out, which resulted in Deception Bay having to be checked. R. Wiggins was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 8 meetings, to commence at midnight, 10 September, and to expire at midnight, 19 September 2008.
Race 5:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Zero Rock, who had been most impressive when winning by six lengths over 1000m on her debut, was untroubled in making it back to back wins, this time over 1200m.
Jockey Brad Pengelly made maximum use of the filly’s favourable draw and he picked up an easy trail on the leaders before pouncing soon after turning for home, from which moment the race ceased to be a serious contest – although Pengelly had to keep working on Zero Rock all the way to the line as Express Air closed ground late to keep the winner honest.
Trainer Kelso Wood confided that the wet track was a worry going into the race.
“She’s a Danzero filly,” explained Wood. “Danzero’s generally do handle the wet, although some haven’t.
“Zero Rock’s a big striding filly and horses like that don’t have confidence in the wet. She came through well though. Very pleasing.”
Zero Rock only had her first run late in her two year old season and this was her first of her three-year-old campaign.
“There have been no problems. She only started when she did because we were being patient. We were just waiting till she was ready,” concluded Wood.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Zero Rock (B. Pengelly) and Express Air (J. Holder) were inclined to lay in under pressure over the concluding stages. A post race veterinary examination of Brilliantes revealed the filly to be sore in the off-fore leg.
Race 6:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The John Morrisey trained Rockdale was all the rage in this small field of six runners and the Group 1 winner duly obliged – but he had to work a lot harder for victory than many had anticipated.
Morrisey was certainly not one of those who thought Rockdale would cruise in. In fact, he had an entirely more conservative view of Rockdale’s chances going into the contest.
“I didn’t think he would win,” admitted Morrisey.
“He’s not actually three-years-old yet and it is very hard to beat older horses at this stage of the season.
“He’s got the ability for sure, but it was still a big ask. But he produced a big effort.”
Jockey Glen Colless was breathing a bit heavier than he usually does after a race, a fact which confirmed the win had been hard-earned.
“He can do it from the front,” nodded Colless. “He’s one of those horses, when they come up to him (as Victory Flight had done halfway up the straight), he responds.
“I had to get into him a bit going to the line, but he got there,” continued Colless. “It will do him the world of good.”
Morrisey confirmed that Rockdale is booked to leave on Thursday morning for Melbourne where he will target a race in two weeks time.
“I won’t do much with him in the next two weeks,” said Morrisey.
“He’ll have an easy fortnight. We’ll just let him settle in without asking too much of him.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
When the pace eased approaching the 1000m, Hard To Catch had to be steadied off the heels of Bitabiff (S. Seamer).
Race 7:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
A barnstorming ride by Dean Tanti, supplemented by an oh so brave performance by his mount Eleda, carried the day here by the narrowest of margins in the most controversial of circumstances.
The controversy, relating to Jockey Bobby El-Issa’s ride was resolved in the Stewards room (see Stewards Report Extract) and it overshadowed the effort of Eleda who extended her sweet run of success.
“Not many win five-in-a-row,” pointed out trainer Bryan Guy. “And remember, she was knocked sideways at the top of the turn and had a huge amount of ground to make up in the straight.”
Eleda had taking time to regain her stride after being pushed wide at the top of the straight by Awasi Ougi - but regain her stride she did.
Eleda was fortunate that Awsase Ougi went on with it once she had bullied her way into clear. Instead of further impeding Eleda, Awase Ougi stretched away in front of Eleda and thus became the immediate target in Tanti’s sights.
Awase Ougi was flying and was taking Eleda in her tow.
But even at the 200m, with both of these runners making up ground quickly wide on the track, it still seemed unlikely that Eleda would be able to get to Awase Ougi and, in any event, that result seemed to be of little consequence as they appeared to be too far back to feature in the outcome. (Awase Ougi was ninth and some six lengths off the leader, My First Affair, at the time).
Both runners stuck to their tasks though and powered home, forging into contention close to the line where the result came down to the last couple strides.
My First Affair (El-Issa) had looked all over a winner inside the last 100m but El-Issa, not seeing the fast finishing duo out wide, stopped riding his mount short of the line, just as Eleda got the better of Awsae Ougi and flashed through the finish.
The photo-finish confirmed Eleda as the winner by an official margin of a nose, leaving a highly pumped up Dean Tanti to bring one of his favourite horses back to the winners’ enclosure.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Eleda (D. Tanti) jumped away awkwardly. Pinelope (J. Byrne) was caught 3 wide without cover in the middle stages. Bhagwanita (M. Palmer) and Ms Marju (S. Galloway) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Jockey L. Herne, rider of Awasi Ougi, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that near the 400m she permitted her mount to shift out into the rightful running of Eleda (D. Tanti), causing that horse to be inconvenienced and taken out on to Bhagwanita (M. Palmer). In this incident, Eleda faltered and shifted out. L. Herne was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 7 meetings, to commence at midnight, 6 September, and to expire at midnight, 18 September 2008.
Jockey B. El-Issa, rider of My First Affair, was found guilty of a charge under AR137(b), in that he failed to ride his mount right out to the finish of the race. B. El-Issa was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 2 months, to commence at midnight, 10 September, and to expire at midnight, 10 November 2008. In assessing penalty, stewards were of the opinion that B. El-issa's actions cost My First Affair the race.
Race 8:
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Just a guess here, but I suggest Dean Tanti was still riding on the adrenaline left over his Eleda victory.
Whether he was or not, he could not have given the Ron Maund trained Pelltro a more perfect ride.
Turning for home in last place, Tanti opted to take Pelltro down the centre of the track and he never once had to shift even marginally left or right, being fortunate enough to be allowed to follow a straight line to victory.
In the end, the gelding’s sixth career success was achieved by a comfortable two length margin.
“I wasn’t going to go to the outside,” said Tanti. “I knew I’d lose too much ground there.
“He (Pelltro) doesn't seem to quite get the 1200m,”continued Tanti, “but he does like a fast run 1000m where he can get the last crack at them. Just like he did here.”
When last did Tanti have a city double?
“It’s got to be a long time since I rode a city double,” answered Tanti. ‘I’m normally at the Coast.
“Ric’s (McMahon) is the number one rider for my stable. I just take what I can get and I’m very happy with what I got today,” concluded Tanti.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT: Tag (M. Palmer) jumped away awkwardly and missed the start.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
.JPG)
