An excellent return to winning form today by I Ponder in the VALE JOHN ‘SNOW’ STAFFORD VAUTIN MID BENCHMARK 62 Handicap over 1900 metres, enabled by a terrific ride by Michael Hellyer.
It is not easy to get a big, long striding horse around such a tight track like Kilcoy, and Michael commented post race that he felt like he was losing a length or two on every turn. After settling at the rear and making a long sustained run, he was able to get him to balance up when it mattered however, and the talented stayer was too good today.
It was his 3rd win in 13 starts, for $53,000 in prizemoney, after he brought up a pair of wins on the poly track at home on the Sunshine Coast last campaign.
This was a great way for the new Symons Laxon Racing business to start, and hopefully there are plenty of wins in store for this gelding, and the other smart horses in the stable.
Congratulations to owners Kevin Hawes and John Symons, and to Michael, Jana, Kelly, Sheila and the team!
