A weekend that could not get much better with 3 runners in 2 races, and a result of 2 winners and a 2nd! A great training effort.
Friday night started off with Van Nuys and Il Toro d’Oro dominating the Hideaway Weddings Maiden Plate over 1600m. Both were drawn wide and did it tough in the run, with the Fiorente mare Van Nuys (Jaden Lloyd) having the better run and outsprinting the gallant Il Toro (Larry Cassidy) late in the straight. A good effort by both horses and they look primed to win their share of staying races.
Sunday afternoon brought Set Me Up to the races in the HOME CARE ASSISTANCE Class 1 Handicap over 1800m, and after a long time out with injury, the big daughter of Inaflury had taken several runs to trim down. The last run over 1650m was very promising in 3rd, so the extra 150m with added fitness looked right up her alley.
With Jaden Lloyd aboard again, she was always travelling well with a solid tempo, and although hearts were in our mouths for a few strides at the top of the straight, the best stayer prevailed with the Star Witness 5yo mare clearing out for a commanding win.
She looks back to her best and ready to step up in distance in a higher grade.
Outstanding work by John and Sheila with their ability to consistently produce the best presented horses in the mounting yard, to place them in winnable races fit and ready to run to the peak of their powers.
Congratulations all!