Ahoy Roarers! The focus on racing this Saturday was at Rosehill for the Group 1 double header, highlighted by the tough and tenacious win of Preferment in the BMW (2400m).
Once again, like the Australian Cup, it was the ride from Hugh Bowman.
Quickly got onto the back of Mongolian Khan in a three wide position and just cruised before Bowman realised that the Caulfield Cup winner was fading, so he dashed around the outside 600m out and took the lead at the top of the straight.
He was there to be run, and there were queries about him running a strong 2400m, but he toughed it out best. He beat stablemates Who Shot Thebarman and Grand Marshal, with both of those looking in outstanding order for the Sydney Cup, especially the latter if there is a drop of rain.
It’ll be very interesting to see what Montaigne does next time in. He is doing all of this in one preparation, and if he shows natural improvement, he is going to be the next star of Australian racing. With young horses, if they have a hard prep, they could fall in a heap and turn it up when they step out next prep. He will be fascinating to watch later in the year and whether or not he can take the next step.
The other Group 1 on the card was the Vinery Stud (2000m), and nobody at all could begrudge Single Gaze of the win.
She is just an iron filly who loved to be a bridesmaid, but she has put together a couple of big wins on the board, and this win here was dominant.
It is just reward for trainer Nick Olive, who is fast becoming one of the best up and coming trainers in Australia.
She beat home the kiwi filly Valley Girl with Happy Hannah for Team Snowden flashing home for third. The disappointments were clearly Risque and Stay With Me, both of which just didn’t run the trip out and were well beaten.
Looking forward, with Single Gaze, I personally think a drop back to the Queen Of The Turf (1600m) with only 54.5kg on her back would be a lovely option. Of the rain came, she’d thrive given she is by one of the best wet track sires in the country.
As for the Oaks, the filly I want to be on is Honesta. She was flatfooted when the leaders sprinted, but her last 150m was beautiful. Back on a bigger track and an extra 400m will see her take a power of beating.
Other talking points from Rosehill
. Can It’s Somewhat win the Queen Elizabeth?
. Malaguerra- coming Group l winner?
. Where does Old North head?
. Havana Cooler- wow!
no one in particular
Roar Guru
"Can It’s Somewhat win the Queen Elizabeth?" No
no one in particular
Roar Guru
Rupert Clarke, Toorak, Myer. Spell, aim at Newmarket and/or Coolmore, let up then Brisbane, then Breeding Barn She's only a 3yo once, so no harm to see if she gets an Oaks
Danny Winter
Guest
Some weeks back,I wrote a comment on Mongolian khan.. It is in your files. I received a reply from one of your journalists in a manner of derision re my comments on Mongolian khan.. I am not sure who it was,however he said ,,,,,tell us a bit about yourself Danny. My comments on Mongolian khan says it all ..refer to the email I sent.. You may learn something about racehorses and the industry in general. Regards. Danny Winter
Adam Page
Roar Guru
Where do they go with her Aransan? There aren't many races for her in the Spring, apart from the Myer, but I'm just not sure she is up that level.
Aransan
Guest
Stay With Me was disappointing. It is very hard for a horse to be successful when they prefer settling near the rear of the field but can't run further than 1600m.
peeeko
Guest
this shouldnt be the Easter Saturday meeting. it either has to be the slipper or the championships.