Second South African Win for Bel's Princess
Bel's Empress was soon in front from Revealing Belle, Falana, The Lucky Cat, Smangaliso and Ami Amor. Falana took it up from Bel's Empress in the straight with Ami Amor running on and these three battled it out to the line. Falana looked like she might have done enough but Bel's Empress fought back to nose out Ami Amor with Falana shaded into third.
4 b f
Bel Esprit (AUS) - Princess O'Rourke (AUS) by King Of Kings (IRE)
Haras Del Carmo C C (Nom: Mr P F M Do Carmo)
Royal blue, royal blue sleeves, yellow seams, collar and cuffs, royal blue cap
Bred by Benson House Racing & Stud, NSW
Career Record : W2 P0 R9 Stakes:R37500
GE631 - Race 5 - R70K - OLIVETTI OPEN HANDICAP (F & M)For Fillies and Mares - 1400m
No Horse---------------- Jockey------ Kg--Dr Fin Time
4 BEL'S EMPRESS (AUS)Karis Teetan 53.0 4-- 1 --82.23
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Perfect Sky 27/03/09
Perfect Return
Michael Lee
Michael Lee
Friday, March 27, 2009 
The promising Perfect Sky overcame a six-month spell and a massive gain in weight to stage a stunning winning comeback on Friday.
Unsighted on the racetrack since he scored his third win in a Graduation race over 1200m last September, the Bel Esprit four-year-old made his return in the $75,000 Class 3 race over 1200m with a 29kg body weight increase, which seemingly turned out to be of no hindrance.
Dropped back at the rear by jockey Benny Woodworth, Perfect Sky switched out wide for his final run, finishing the best to defeat a tenacious So Majestic (John Powell) by a neck.
Perfect Sky (Benny Woodworth) makes a victorious return on Friday.
So Majestic won half the battle when he flew his outermost alley to establish a soft lead on the chasing pack. He pulled out plenty in the home straight and was a winner everywhere but 25 shy of the winning post when Perfect Sky got up on the outside.
Prepared by Desmond Koh, Perfect Sky has now tallied a handy record of four wins and three placings from 12 starts for the Arowana Stable.
“It was a pleasant surprise considering he’s put on 29kg. But he has been trialling well and I was expecting a good run from him,” said Koh.
“I think he runs well fresh, and looking at the strong field he beat, he looks set to have a good future here.”
Woodworth, who is having one of his leanest periods, was glad he had added a second win since Alvito scored on February 28.
“This horse normally races forward but today we took a sit and it seems to suit him,” said Woodworth.
“I had to ride him hard and he responded very well for a very good win.”
Koh said he had no immediate plans for Perfect Sky, but he will now seriously consider some more ambitious options for his charge.
The promising Perfect Sky overcame a six-month spell and a massive gain in weight to stage a stunning winning comeback on Friday.
Unsighted on the racetrack since he scored his third win in a Graduation race over 1200m last September, the Bel Esprit four-year-old made his return in the $75,000 Class 3 race over 1200m with a 29kg body weight increase, which seemingly turned out to be of no hindrance.
Dropped back at the rear by jockey Benny Woodworth, Perfect Sky switched out wide for his final run, finishing the best to defeat a tenacious So Majestic (John Powell) by a neck.
Perfect Sky (Benny Woodworth) makes a victorious return on Friday.
So Majestic won half the battle when he flew his outermost alley to establish a soft lead on the chasing pack. He pulled out plenty in the home straight and was a winner everywhere but 25 shy of the winning post when Perfect Sky got up on the outside.
Prepared by Desmond Koh, Perfect Sky has now tallied a handy record of four wins and three placings from 12 starts for the Arowana Stable.
“It was a pleasant surprise considering he’s put on 29kg. But he has been trialling well and I was expecting a good run from him,” said Koh.
“I think he runs well fresh, and looking at the strong field he beat, he looks set to have a good future here.”
Woodworth, who is having one of his leanest periods, was glad he had added a second win since Alvito scored on February 28.
“This horse normally races forward but today we took a sit and it seems to suit him,” said Woodworth.
“I had to ride him hard and he responded very well for a very good win.”
Koh said he had no immediate plans for Perfect Sky, but he will now seriously consider some more ambitious options for his charge.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Mooring 20/03/09
Mooring Docks in Again
Michael LeeFriday, March 20, 2009
Promising three-year-old Mooring made it back-to-back victories on Friday night, erasing the memories of his disastrous debut two months ago, when he finished last and returned lame.
The son of Bel Esprit has since bounced back in spectacular fashion, first accounting for a Maiden field over 1000m on March 4 and backing that performance up with another scintillating win in the $55,000 Class 4 race (1000m).
Normally an on-pace type of competitor, Mooring with Danny Beasley in the irons, was this time beaten for speed but quickly mustered enough momentum from the back stretch to slot into the gun run in fifth one-off the fence with plenty of cover.
Mooring makes it two on end with victory under Danny Beasley on Friday night.
Closest danger, favourite That’s Cash (John Sundradas) had had a dream run in the lead and looked to be the one to catch when he swung home with two lengths to spare, and still under a restraint by his rider.
But once Beasley switched Mooring to full gear down the middle, there was no question who was about to reign supreme. In a matter of a few strides, Mooring put a big space between him and the rest to go on and score by 2 ¾ lengths from That’s Cash, with Msixteen (Oscar Chavez) running late for third another 1 ½ lengths away.
Mooring, who is raced by the now familiar colours of Mummify Stable, clocked the slick time of 1min 0.1secs for the 1000m on Polytrack.
“I’m very happy with the way he’s a lot more relaxed during his races now,” was Freedman’s first reaction.
“He still gets all wound up on the way to the barriers, but what matters is he is now more settled and showing greater racing maturity.
“I think I will now extend him a little to up to 1200m and maybe even 1400m. I don’t think he’s just a Polytrack horse as he’s handled the turf as well back home.”
The Australian trainer holds a good opinion of Mooring but it is obvious he does not want to get too carried away at this stage.
“It was just a Class 4 race, but I have a pretty good opinion of the runner-up. They spaced the others in the home straight,” said Freedman.
“My bloke keeps running good times and he seems to have turned the corner since that first race, when he returned lame and got his tongue over. We’ve tied his tongue since and it’s resulted in two wins.
“We’ll just have to see how he goes through his grades to have a better idea if he can measure up to the higher class. At this stage, the three-year-old series is not really on his agenda.”
Michael LeeFriday, March 20, 2009
Promising three-year-old Mooring made it back-to-back victories on Friday night, erasing the memories of his disastrous debut two months ago, when he finished last and returned lame.
The son of Bel Esprit has since bounced back in spectacular fashion, first accounting for a Maiden field over 1000m on March 4 and backing that performance up with another scintillating win in the $55,000 Class 4 race (1000m).
Normally an on-pace type of competitor, Mooring with Danny Beasley in the irons, was this time beaten for speed but quickly mustered enough momentum from the back stretch to slot into the gun run in fifth one-off the fence with plenty of cover.
Mooring makes it two on end with victory under Danny Beasley on Friday night.
Closest danger, favourite That’s Cash (John Sundradas) had had a dream run in the lead and looked to be the one to catch when he swung home with two lengths to spare, and still under a restraint by his rider.
But once Beasley switched Mooring to full gear down the middle, there was no question who was about to reign supreme. In a matter of a few strides, Mooring put a big space between him and the rest to go on and score by 2 ¾ lengths from That’s Cash, with Msixteen (Oscar Chavez) running late for third another 1 ½ lengths away.
Mooring, who is raced by the now familiar colours of Mummify Stable, clocked the slick time of 1min 0.1secs for the 1000m on Polytrack.
“I’m very happy with the way he’s a lot more relaxed during his races now,” was Freedman’s first reaction.
“He still gets all wound up on the way to the barriers, but what matters is he is now more settled and showing greater racing maturity.
“I think I will now extend him a little to up to 1200m and maybe even 1400m. I don’t think he’s just a Polytrack horse as he’s handled the turf as well back home.”
The Australian trainer holds a good opinion of Mooring but it is obvious he does not want to get too carried away at this stage.
“It was just a Class 4 race, but I have a pretty good opinion of the runner-up. They spaced the others in the home straight,” said Freedman.
“My bloke keeps running good times and he seems to have turned the corner since that first race, when he returned lame and got his tongue over. We’ve tied his tongue since and it’s resulted in two wins.
“We’ll just have to see how he goes through his grades to have a better idea if he can measure up to the higher class. At this stage, the three-year-old series is not really on his agenda.”
Alesprit 23/03/09
Alespirit might be set for Winter Carnival riches
By Bart Sinclair
March 23, 2009 12:00am
CENTRAL Queensland filly Alesprit might be a Brisbane winter carnival contender but Rockhampton trainer Tom Bourke is not thinking too far ahead.Alesprit will have her next start in the $119,000 Capricorn Sales Classic over 1200m at Rockhampton on Saturday week.
There will be a lot of interest around Australia in her performance.
Alesprit's win by more than 11 lengths over 1000m at Rocky on March 3 drew national attention and some big money offers for the Bel Esprit filly.
At her only previous start back in November, Alesprit was unplaced in another 1000m event at Callaghan Park but she missed the start badly that day.
"I'll see how she goes at the 1200 metres up here before we make plans but Brisbane is a real possibility," Bourke said.
BOURKE has been based at Rockhampton for the past five years after two years on the Sunshine Coast.
Originally from Armidale, Bourke trained at Grafton for 10 years before his transfer to the Sunshine Coast.
In his New England days, Bourke has a successful association with a young rider called Garry Baker.
Baker, now based on the Gold Coast, will be the jockey for Alesprit in the Capricorn Sales Classic.
By Bart Sinclair
March 23, 2009 12:00am
CENTRAL Queensland filly Alesprit might be a Brisbane winter carnival contender but Rockhampton trainer Tom Bourke is not thinking too far ahead.Alesprit will have her next start in the $119,000 Capricorn Sales Classic over 1200m at Rockhampton on Saturday week.
There will be a lot of interest around Australia in her performance.
Alesprit's win by more than 11 lengths over 1000m at Rocky on March 3 drew national attention and some big money offers for the Bel Esprit filly.
At her only previous start back in November, Alesprit was unplaced in another 1000m event at Callaghan Park but she missed the start badly that day.
"I'll see how she goes at the 1200 metres up here before we make plans but Brisbane is a real possibility," Bourke said.
BOURKE has been based at Rockhampton for the past five years after two years on the Sunshine Coast.
Originally from Armidale, Bourke trained at Grafton for 10 years before his transfer to the Sunshine Coast.
In his New England days, Bourke has a successful association with a young rider called Garry Baker.
Baker, now based on the Gold Coast, will be the jockey for Alesprit in the Capricorn Sales Classic.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Bel Mer 21/03/09
Craig Newitt scores a double for Price
Article from: Sunday Herald Sun
Tony Reed and Rod Nicholson
March 22, 2009 12:00am
CAULFIELD trainer Mick Price and jockey Craig Newitt clinched the Adelaide Group 1 double yesterday with wins in the Australasian Oaks and Robert Sangster Stakes.
And adding to his golden run in big races, Price also celebrated the victory of Heart Of Dreams in the Group 2 Phar Lap Stakes at Rosehill.
Smart filly Gallica ($2 fav) won the 2005m Oaks and now will head to Sydney for the AJC Oaks and maybe the Derby.
The absence of champion filly Samantha Miss because of injury makes the Sydney carnival a nice option for the quality stayer by Redoute's Choice. Gallica, last-start winner of the Kewney Stakes at Flemington on March 7, easily accounted for the Lee Freedman-trained Estee ($5).
Newitt's venture to Adelaide was great compensation for not heading to Sydney yesterday.
His regular mount, Heart Of Dreams, was ridden to victory by Damien Oliver, who is the regular rider for Gallica.
Newitt completed the double for Price in the Sangster Stakes (1200m) when Bel Mer ($8) stole a big break on the turn and hung on for victory.
The two $300,000 Group 1 victories took Price's wins in the elite company to 14, as he becomes one of the major players in Australian racing.
Newitt, who lost his father, Guy, in a car crash earlier this month, has been riding in outstanding form, as his partnership with Price bears fruits.
Bel Mer, who drew barrier 13, in the Robert Sangster Stakes was aiming for a first-up win.
The four-year-old mare held on to win by a length from $101 chance Hidden Wonder, with strong-finishing Impressive Eagle ($31) a further long neck away, third.
Bel Mer had always shown she had talent - she ran second to Weekend Hussler - and although reasonably consistent, Price believed the mare had often peaked too soon.
"I probably had made the blue in the past of running her in a race like this with a run under her belt," Price said.
"When we came over here last year, she had had enough. We did our homework and decided to set her for this race first-up."
Price sharpened her for a Group 1 tilt with a four-length trial win over 800m at Cranbourne on March 10, with her scorching over the distance in 44.29 seconds.
He admitted being concerned when Newitt took the mare to the front early in the home straight saying: "She only has a sprint of about 200m and she took the lead 300m out. Fortunately, once she got there, she held on well."
Price said he would now stick to a similar plan and freshen Bel Mer to have her ready for another Group 1 attempt in the $350,000 The Galaxy (1000m) at Randwick on April 11.
Another milestone was created when Bel Mer won Bel Esprit's 1st G1, it was the 100th win for his 1st crop
Group 1 Breakthrough For Bel
Story By Nathan Exelby
Saturday, 21 March 2009: Australia's busiest stallion of 2007 landed his first Group 1 winner when top mare Bel Mer proved too speedy in the Robert Sangster Stakes at Morphettville.
A $110,000 Magic Millions graduate, Bel Mer was specifically set for the race by Mick Price, who was aiming to capitalise on the four-year-old's outstanding fresh record.His meticulous planning was rewarded with the Group 1 win.Bel Mer is from the stakes winning At Talaq mare Drop Anchor and her second dam Marine Park (Sir Dapper) was also a Listed winner.The four-year-old is now the winner of four races in 16 starts for earnings of almost $600,000. Bel Mer had showcased her Group 1 credentials as a spring three-year-old, when running second in the 2007 G1 Ascot Vale Stakes - splitting Weekend Hussler and Scenic Blast. That race has proven a handy form reference!Price has a good affinity with progeny of Bel Esprit, also preparing the top class mare Vivacious Spirit.Bel Mer and Vivacious Spirit are among four career stakes winners to date for Bel Esprit – each of them of the fairer sex and each from his first crop.Bel Esprit is one of the great fairytale stories of Australian racing this decade.Deemed to have too many faults as a yearling, Macedon Lodge snapped him up for just $9000 at the 2001 Inglis Classic Sale.He became Melbourne's best two-year-old, winning the G1 Blue Diamond Stakes, before training on at three to land a second major in the Doomben 10,000. Retired to Eliza Park Stud at an initial fee of $18,150, he has covered books of 100+ in each of his six seasons to date, with his fee rising to $33,000 last year.He covered a massive book of 266 during the EI affected 2007 season, with another 110 mares visiting him last year.
Group 1 Double For Newitt
Saturday, 21 March 2009:
Article from: Sunday Herald Sun
Tony Reed and Rod Nicholson
March 22, 2009 12:00am
CAULFIELD trainer Mick Price and jockey Craig Newitt clinched the Adelaide Group 1 double yesterday with wins in the Australasian Oaks and Robert Sangster Stakes.
And adding to his golden run in big races, Price also celebrated the victory of Heart Of Dreams in the Group 2 Phar Lap Stakes at Rosehill.
Smart filly Gallica ($2 fav) won the 2005m Oaks and now will head to Sydney for the AJC Oaks and maybe the Derby.
The absence of champion filly Samantha Miss because of injury makes the Sydney carnival a nice option for the quality stayer by Redoute's Choice. Gallica, last-start winner of the Kewney Stakes at Flemington on March 7, easily accounted for the Lee Freedman-trained Estee ($5).
Newitt's venture to Adelaide was great compensation for not heading to Sydney yesterday.
His regular mount, Heart Of Dreams, was ridden to victory by Damien Oliver, who is the regular rider for Gallica.
Newitt completed the double for Price in the Sangster Stakes (1200m) when Bel Mer ($8) stole a big break on the turn and hung on for victory.
The two $300,000 Group 1 victories took Price's wins in the elite company to 14, as he becomes one of the major players in Australian racing.
Newitt, who lost his father, Guy, in a car crash earlier this month, has been riding in outstanding form, as his partnership with Price bears fruits.
Bel Mer, who drew barrier 13, in the Robert Sangster Stakes was aiming for a first-up win.
The four-year-old mare held on to win by a length from $101 chance Hidden Wonder, with strong-finishing Impressive Eagle ($31) a further long neck away, third.
Bel Mer had always shown she had talent - she ran second to Weekend Hussler - and although reasonably consistent, Price believed the mare had often peaked too soon.
"I probably had made the blue in the past of running her in a race like this with a run under her belt," Price said.
"When we came over here last year, she had had enough. We did our homework and decided to set her for this race first-up."
Price sharpened her for a Group 1 tilt with a four-length trial win over 800m at Cranbourne on March 10, with her scorching over the distance in 44.29 seconds.
He admitted being concerned when Newitt took the mare to the front early in the home straight saying: "She only has a sprint of about 200m and she took the lead 300m out. Fortunately, once she got there, she held on well."
Price said he would now stick to a similar plan and freshen Bel Mer to have her ready for another Group 1 attempt in the $350,000 The Galaxy (1000m) at Randwick on April 11.
Another milestone was created when Bel Mer won Bel Esprit's 1st G1, it was the 100th win for his 1st crop
Group 1 Breakthrough For Bel
Story By Nathan Exelby
Saturday, 21 March 2009: Australia's busiest stallion of 2007 landed his first Group 1 winner when top mare Bel Mer proved too speedy in the Robert Sangster Stakes at Morphettville.
A $110,000 Magic Millions graduate, Bel Mer was specifically set for the race by Mick Price, who was aiming to capitalise on the four-year-old's outstanding fresh record.His meticulous planning was rewarded with the Group 1 win.Bel Mer is from the stakes winning At Talaq mare Drop Anchor and her second dam Marine Park (Sir Dapper) was also a Listed winner.The four-year-old is now the winner of four races in 16 starts for earnings of almost $600,000. Bel Mer had showcased her Group 1 credentials as a spring three-year-old, when running second in the 2007 G1 Ascot Vale Stakes - splitting Weekend Hussler and Scenic Blast. That race has proven a handy form reference!Price has a good affinity with progeny of Bel Esprit, also preparing the top class mare Vivacious Spirit.Bel Mer and Vivacious Spirit are among four career stakes winners to date for Bel Esprit – each of them of the fairer sex and each from his first crop.Bel Esprit is one of the great fairytale stories of Australian racing this decade.Deemed to have too many faults as a yearling, Macedon Lodge snapped him up for just $9000 at the 2001 Inglis Classic Sale.He became Melbourne's best two-year-old, winning the G1 Blue Diamond Stakes, before training on at three to land a second major in the Doomben 10,000. Retired to Eliza Park Stud at an initial fee of $18,150, he has covered books of 100+ in each of his six seasons to date, with his fee rising to $33,000 last year.He covered a massive book of 266 during the EI affected 2007 season, with another 110 mares visiting him last year.
Group 1 Double For Newitt
Saturday, 21 March 2009:
Jockey Craig Newitt put a testing couple of weeks behind him with a Group 1 double at Morphettville today – winning both the Schweppes Oaks and Robert Sangster Stakes for the Mick Price stable.
Newitt, who tragically lost his father Guy in a car accident just three weeks ago, partnered the classy Gallica in the Schweppes Oaks who proved a class above.But half an hour later, Newitt was at his brilliant best as he steered Bel Mer ($8.00) across from her wide gate to sit just off the pace, before hitting the front at the top of the straight and setting up a winning break.While she tired late, the mare had enough in hand to score a first-up win over longshots Hidden Energy ($100.00) and Impressive Eagle ($31.00).Newitt declared Price a genius following the win, having specifically set the speedy mare for a first-up tilt at the race.“Mick Price is an absolute genius,” Newitt said. “She can only run 1200m when she's rock hard fit and he trained her up for this first-up. Once we got over she had a lovely run and it was all over from there.“I always believed she had a Group 1win in her – it was only a matter of time.”It was a great day for Newitt, who scored a winning treble having earlier won on Cerberus Gal.Price said Bel Mer, a Vinery Stud owned daughter of Bel Esprit, had been difficult to place as she possessed a very sharp but equally short sprint.It was a personal triumph for Price, who had run the mare in the race last year but she was well held when pulling up lame. She was also well beaten at her only other start at Morphettville in last year's Goodwood.Despite her poor record at the track, Price remained adamant the race, restricted to fillies and mares, was the ideal target for Bel Mer and tuned her for today's assignment with an easy Cranbourne trial win.“We specifically wanted her at her top first-up,” Price said. “There's no improvement in her but there doesn't have to be. “She hit the front very early and I was worried because she only has a short sprint but she's got the group 1 win on her CV now.”
Newitt, who tragically lost his father Guy in a car accident just three weeks ago, partnered the classy Gallica in the Schweppes Oaks who proved a class above.But half an hour later, Newitt was at his brilliant best as he steered Bel Mer ($8.00) across from her wide gate to sit just off the pace, before hitting the front at the top of the straight and setting up a winning break.While she tired late, the mare had enough in hand to score a first-up win over longshots Hidden Energy ($100.00) and Impressive Eagle ($31.00).Newitt declared Price a genius following the win, having specifically set the speedy mare for a first-up tilt at the race.“Mick Price is an absolute genius,” Newitt said. “She can only run 1200m when she's rock hard fit and he trained her up for this first-up. Once we got over she had a lovely run and it was all over from there.“I always believed she had a Group 1win in her – it was only a matter of time.”It was a great day for Newitt, who scored a winning treble having earlier won on Cerberus Gal.Price said Bel Mer, a Vinery Stud owned daughter of Bel Esprit, had been difficult to place as she possessed a very sharp but equally short sprint.It was a personal triumph for Price, who had run the mare in the race last year but she was well held when pulling up lame. She was also well beaten at her only other start at Morphettville in last year's Goodwood.Despite her poor record at the track, Price remained adamant the race, restricted to fillies and mares, was the ideal target for Bel Mer and tuned her for today's assignment with an easy Cranbourne trial win.“We specifically wanted her at her top first-up,” Price said. “There's no improvement in her but there doesn't have to be. “She hit the front very early and I was worried because she only has a short sprint but she's got the group 1 win on her CV now.”
MAGIC MILLIONS - BEL MER GIVES PRICE AND NEWITT A 'MAGIC' DOUBLE
Media ReleaseFor immediate release
Bel Mer made it a magical Group One double for trainer Mick Price and jockey Craig Newitt when she won the $300,300 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville today.
The daughter of Bel Esprit, who earlier in her career was Group One placed behind reigning Horse of the Year Weekend Hussler, shot well clear at the top of the straight and then easily held out a crack field for a deserved big race victory.
The win was the second by a Magic Millions Yearling Sale graduate in a Group One race on the card that was trained by Price and ridden by Newitt.
Just over half an hour earlier they teamed up to win the Australasian Oaks (2005m) with the Redoute's Choice filly Gallica.
At the post Bel Mer ($9-$11-$8) held a one length margin over the Sangster representative Hidden Energy ($101), a long shot for Paul Gatt and David Hayes .
Another long neck back in third place was the fast finishing Impressive Eagle ($31) for locals Chad Lever and Leon Macdonald.
The favourite Absolut Glam ($3.20) wound up in sixth place - 2.3 lengths from the winner.
"It's a long straight here for a horse like her," a red hot Mick Price said.
"She hit the front at the top of the straight which was a little bit of a concern because we think she's got a 250 or 300 metre sprint on her."
"But she was there and she hung on and she gets a Group One on her name."
"It's fantastic for Craig and Vinery and all of the guys - it's super!"
"I couldn't be happier."
Price said the key to her victory today was the fact she was nice and fresh for the Group One feature.
"We sort of messed things up with her in a couple of the big races," he added. "Probably by having her raced into the (main) races."
"I spoke to (senior part owner) Peter Orton and we specifically wanted her tuned to run her first up."
"She had a couple of trials at Caulfield and one at Cranbourne to get her ready to go."
"There was no improvement in her - but there didn't have to be."
Bel Mer, who cost $110,000 from the draft of Eliza Park at the 2006 Magic Millions Yearling Sale, boosted her earnings to $588,950 following today's win.
A beautifully bred galloper and the first Group One winner for her sire Bel Esprit, Bel Mer is one of the country's most valuable broodmare prospects.
She is one of five winners from the Sandown stakes winning At Talaq mare Drop Anchor.
Drop Anchor in turn is a daughter of the Flemington stakes winning Marine Park.
Bel Mer made it a magical Group One double for trainer Mick Price and jockey Craig Newitt when she won the $300,300 Robert Sangster Stakes (1200m) at Morphettville today.
The daughter of Bel Esprit, who earlier in her career was Group One placed behind reigning Horse of the Year Weekend Hussler, shot well clear at the top of the straight and then easily held out a crack field for a deserved big race victory.
The win was the second by a Magic Millions Yearling Sale graduate in a Group One race on the card that was trained by Price and ridden by Newitt.
Just over half an hour earlier they teamed up to win the Australasian Oaks (2005m) with the Redoute's Choice filly Gallica.
At the post Bel Mer ($9-$11-$8) held a one length margin over the Sangster representative Hidden Energy ($101), a long shot for Paul Gatt and David Hayes .
Another long neck back in third place was the fast finishing Impressive Eagle ($31) for locals Chad Lever and Leon Macdonald.
The favourite Absolut Glam ($3.20) wound up in sixth place - 2.3 lengths from the winner.
"It's a long straight here for a horse like her," a red hot Mick Price said.
"She hit the front at the top of the straight which was a little bit of a concern because we think she's got a 250 or 300 metre sprint on her."
"But she was there and she hung on and she gets a Group One on her name."
"It's fantastic for Craig and Vinery and all of the guys - it's super!"
"I couldn't be happier."
Price said the key to her victory today was the fact she was nice and fresh for the Group One feature.
"We sort of messed things up with her in a couple of the big races," he added. "Probably by having her raced into the (main) races."
"I spoke to (senior part owner) Peter Orton and we specifically wanted her tuned to run her first up."
"She had a couple of trials at Caulfield and one at Cranbourne to get her ready to go."
"There was no improvement in her - but there didn't have to be."
Bel Mer, who cost $110,000 from the draft of Eliza Park at the 2006 Magic Millions Yearling Sale, boosted her earnings to $588,950 following today's win.
A beautifully bred galloper and the first Group One winner for her sire Bel Esprit, Bel Mer is one of the country's most valuable broodmare prospects.
She is one of five winners from the Sandown stakes winning At Talaq mare Drop Anchor.
Drop Anchor in turn is a daughter of the Flemington stakes winning Marine Park.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Supreme Best, Esprit De Gain,18/03/09
The Patient Owners
BEL ESPRITS ARE WINNERS
A couple of four year olds are proving to be rewarding for Owners with a bit of patience.
Supreme Best, out of a Canny Lad mare, who had one run in September 2007, returned to the track in February this year and was backed from six to one to evens and collected the prize. He ran third at Doomben three weeks later and on Sunday he won the second race of his career. Starting favourite , he breezed home to win by three lengths to make his Owner, Mrs B A Bellingham, a happy Lady.
The other horse, Esprit De Gain, didn't start till he was a four year old. He ran third in his first start in December last year and finished third, followed that up with a win at his next start, an unplaced run followed up by a third and yesterday he had his second win at Balaclava in South Australia.
The Owners, T & Mrs L Mc Grail, C Avis, G Goodin, W Mortell & T Robertson are now in front because they bought the horse at the Magic Million sales in Adelaide March 2006 for $3000
Well done.
BEL ESPRITS ARE WINNERS
A couple of four year olds are proving to be rewarding for Owners with a bit of patience.
Supreme Best, out of a Canny Lad mare, who had one run in September 2007, returned to the track in February this year and was backed from six to one to evens and collected the prize. He ran third at Doomben three weeks later and on Sunday he won the second race of his career. Starting favourite , he breezed home to win by three lengths to make his Owner, Mrs B A Bellingham, a happy Lady.
The other horse, Esprit De Gain, didn't start till he was a four year old. He ran third in his first start in December last year and finished third, followed that up with a win at his next start, an unplaced run followed up by a third and yesterday he had his second win at Balaclava in South Australia.
The Owners, T & Mrs L Mc Grail, C Avis, G Goodin, W Mortell & T Robertson are now in front because they bought the horse at the Magic Million sales in Adelaide March 2006 for $3000
Well done.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Bel Winners 8/03/09
BIG WEEK FOR BEL
Bel Esprit has enjoyed a huge start to March with five winners, culminating in a double yesterday (8 March).
Importantly, the winners have come from far and wide, with I’m Elite (WA), Alesprit (QLD), Stellesprit (NSW), Belahina and Rich Esprit (VIC) all scoring in the past week.
I'M ELITE got the ball rolling at Pinjarra on 1 March by winning his maiden by almost two lengths, having previously run second at his only two outings – both at Ascot.
Sold by Erinvale Stud at the 2007 Perth Premier for $30,000, I’m Elite is out of the Marauding mare, Enchant who has already produced two winners from two to race and is a juvenile winning half sister to 2YO stakeswinner Empower.
It’s still early days, but the Bel Esprit, Marauding cross is turning out to be quite successful too with three winners from three to race.
Meanwhile, BONDI LAD was beaten a lip over 1000m at Sha Tin that night, his first run in Hong Kong and a mighty effort too.
Hailing from the Geiger Counter mare, Bondi Lass, Bondi Lad is from the immediate family of Group One winner and sire Tolomeo and was sold by Eliza Park at the 2007 Sydney Classic Yearling Sale for $22,500. Appears to be a real bargain based on his debut!
ALESPRIT’s run at Rockhampton two days later was nothing short of sensational. Having her second start on the central Queensland circuit, the Bel Esprit 2YO decimated rivals with an 11 and a quarter length victory over the 1000m, breaking 56 seconds in the process.
A daughter of the Rory’s Jester mare, Rory’s Babe, the pedigree’s a little light on black type up close, but not on form. Although this is Rory’s Babe’s first winner from one to race, the previous four dams have produced 35 winners from 39 to race.
The Bel Esprit, Rory’s Jester cross is starting to take shape too with two winners from three runners, including debut winner Belle Society.
John Moloney’s BELAHINA broke through for a deserved win at Sale on 6 March, taking out the 1210m event in fine style.
Bred by Ian Wallis, the 3YO filly has only once been out of the money in seven starts and was knocking on the door with a lip second at Kyneton on 24 February.
Belahina is out of the True Version mare, Pukahina who won four (including a pair of comfortable wins at Moonee Valley).
A six month break has obviously worked wonders for promising filly STELLESPRIT who proved too nippy over the 1000m at Corowa on Sunday.
Not showing a great deal in a short campaign last spring, Stellesprit made every post a winner at Corowa and trainer Mandie Jones will be looking to get more wins out of the Bel Esprit 4YO.
Hailing from the Brondesbury mare Stella Matutina, Stellesprit is a half brother to no less than 12 winners including the South Australian stakeswinning pair Aimbury and Dallaeni.
Finally, to RICH ESPRIT. Having her first race start at Echuca yesterday, Rich Esprit was sent out favourite and ran accordingly, winning comfortably over the 1200m.
Trained by Peter Moody, this gal is bred to be anything: withdrawn from the 2007 Australian Easter Yearling Sale, Rich Esprit is out of the Group winning Rubiton mare, Millrich who has also produced multiple stakeswinner and sire, Danerich.
Expect to hear quite a bit more from this blossoming filly, especially as she gets closer to town.
Bel Esprit has enjoyed a huge start to March with five winners, culminating in a double yesterday (8 March).
Importantly, the winners have come from far and wide, with I’m Elite (WA), Alesprit (QLD), Stellesprit (NSW), Belahina and Rich Esprit (VIC) all scoring in the past week.
I'M ELITE got the ball rolling at Pinjarra on 1 March by winning his maiden by almost two lengths, having previously run second at his only two outings – both at Ascot.
Sold by Erinvale Stud at the 2007 Perth Premier for $30,000, I’m Elite is out of the Marauding mare, Enchant who has already produced two winners from two to race and is a juvenile winning half sister to 2YO stakeswinner Empower.
It’s still early days, but the Bel Esprit, Marauding cross is turning out to be quite successful too with three winners from three to race.
Meanwhile, BONDI LAD was beaten a lip over 1000m at Sha Tin that night, his first run in Hong Kong and a mighty effort too.
Hailing from the Geiger Counter mare, Bondi Lass, Bondi Lad is from the immediate family of Group One winner and sire Tolomeo and was sold by Eliza Park at the 2007 Sydney Classic Yearling Sale for $22,500. Appears to be a real bargain based on his debut!
ALESPRIT’s run at Rockhampton two days later was nothing short of sensational. Having her second start on the central Queensland circuit, the Bel Esprit 2YO decimated rivals with an 11 and a quarter length victory over the 1000m, breaking 56 seconds in the process.
A daughter of the Rory’s Jester mare, Rory’s Babe, the pedigree’s a little light on black type up close, but not on form. Although this is Rory’s Babe’s first winner from one to race, the previous four dams have produced 35 winners from 39 to race.
The Bel Esprit, Rory’s Jester cross is starting to take shape too with two winners from three runners, including debut winner Belle Society.
John Moloney’s BELAHINA broke through for a deserved win at Sale on 6 March, taking out the 1210m event in fine style.
Bred by Ian Wallis, the 3YO filly has only once been out of the money in seven starts and was knocking on the door with a lip second at Kyneton on 24 February.
Belahina is out of the True Version mare, Pukahina who won four (including a pair of comfortable wins at Moonee Valley).
A six month break has obviously worked wonders for promising filly STELLESPRIT who proved too nippy over the 1000m at Corowa on Sunday.
Not showing a great deal in a short campaign last spring, Stellesprit made every post a winner at Corowa and trainer Mandie Jones will be looking to get more wins out of the Bel Esprit 4YO.
Hailing from the Brondesbury mare Stella Matutina, Stellesprit is a half brother to no less than 12 winners including the South Australian stakeswinning pair Aimbury and Dallaeni.
Finally, to RICH ESPRIT. Having her first race start at Echuca yesterday, Rich Esprit was sent out favourite and ran accordingly, winning comfortably over the 1200m.
Trained by Peter Moody, this gal is bred to be anything: withdrawn from the 2007 Australian Easter Yearling Sale, Rich Esprit is out of the Group winning Rubiton mare, Millrich who has also produced multiple stakeswinner and sire, Danerich.
Expect to hear quite a bit more from this blossoming filly, especially as she gets closer to town.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Spirited Halo 13/03/09
Demand “as Strong as Ever” as Melbourne Thoroughbred Concludes
13th Mar 2009
The Melbourne March Thoroughbred Sale came to a conclusion today, with Inglis Director Peter Heagney thrilled with the level of competition, as horses cleared at a rate of 95% today.
The level of sales today brought the two-day sale clearance up to 91%, with 329 horses changing hands over the two days for a gross of $1,369,600.
“It was incredibly strong for the quality of horses we had in the sale. The demand for racing stock was as strong as it has ever been,” Heagney said.
“This result should be comforting to a lot of people in the industry as it underlines that people are still very keen to get their hands on a racehorse and chase the excellent prizemoney available in Australia.”
The top price today and for the sale came for Lot 401, the Rubiton filly Roobles, who sold for $50,000. The three-year-old filly is from the stakes placed Bletchingly mare Blithe Spirit from the famous “Kingston” family that includes the likes of Horse of the Year Rose Of Kingston, her Melbourne Cup winning son Kingston Rule and the VRC Derby winner Portland Player.
Talented gelding Spirited Halo was also among today’s top sellers, with the four-year-old son of Bel Esprit knocked down for $41,000.
13th Mar 2009
The Melbourne March Thoroughbred Sale came to a conclusion today, with Inglis Director Peter Heagney thrilled with the level of competition, as horses cleared at a rate of 95% today.
The level of sales today brought the two-day sale clearance up to 91%, with 329 horses changing hands over the two days for a gross of $1,369,600.
“It was incredibly strong for the quality of horses we had in the sale. The demand for racing stock was as strong as it has ever been,” Heagney said.
“This result should be comforting to a lot of people in the industry as it underlines that people are still very keen to get their hands on a racehorse and chase the excellent prizemoney available in Australia.”
The top price today and for the sale came for Lot 401, the Rubiton filly Roobles, who sold for $50,000. The three-year-old filly is from the stakes placed Bletchingly mare Blithe Spirit from the famous “Kingston” family that includes the likes of Horse of the Year Rose Of Kingston, her Melbourne Cup winning son Kingston Rule and the VRC Derby winner Portland Player.
Talented gelding Spirited Halo was also among today’s top sellers, with the four-year-old son of Bel Esprit knocked down for $41,000.
Spirited Halo in the sale ring
Queen Esprit 12/03/09
Queen Esprit in a Three Way Photo
Last week , we had the largest winning margin by a Bel Esprit progeny, Alesprit, ele
ven and a quarter lengths. Yesterday, we had the closest winning margin, Queen Esprit (on the fence) won at Hawksbury by a short half head from Honourable Lass with Graced a nose away in third place.
Storm Thoroughbreds Pty Ltd Syndicate (Mgr: S Pardi), G E Sage & Maddam Racing Syndicate (Mgr: D Manoukian) must be happy with this filly who was bought at the Jan 07 Magic Millions Gold Coast Conrad Jupiters 2007 Magic Millions Yearling Sale for $33.000
Trained By Mark Conners, this filly by Bel Esprit, was ridden by Chris Munce who took the horse to the front, opening up a margin on the rest of the field in the middle stages of the race and fought on strongly in the straight so nobody could catch her by the finish line
Last week , we had the largest winning margin by a Bel Esprit progeny, Alesprit, ele
ven and a quarter lengths. Yesterday, we had the closest winning margin, Queen Esprit (on the fence) won at Hawksbury by a short half head from Honourable Lass with Graced a nose away in third place.Double chick the photo to enlarge
Queen Esprit has now won three starts and two placings from twelve starts and the Owners,Storm Thoroughbreds Pty Ltd Syndicate (Mgr: S Pardi), G E Sage & Maddam Racing Syndicate (Mgr: D Manoukian) must be happy with this filly who was bought at the Jan 07 Magic Millions Gold Coast Conrad Jupiters 2007 Magic Millions Yearling Sale for $33.000
Trained By Mark Conners, this filly by Bel Esprit, was ridden by Chris Munce who took the horse to the front, opening up a margin on the rest of the field in the middle stages of the race and fought on strongly in the straight so nobody could catch her by the finish line
Monday, March 9, 2009
Alesprit 9/03/09
Rethink after a quick Ale 
When it comes to fast times, two-year-olds don't go much quicker than Alesprit, a Bel Esprit filly who clocked a track record 55.99sec for the Rockhampton 1000m on Tuesday.
Well, that's what we were led to believe until Queensland Racing conducted a review and all was not as it seems.
In fact, Alesprit clocked 56.76.
According to Racing Information Services Australia, the fastest time posted by a two year old is Gai Waterhouse's Pulsator, who ran 55.78sec at Wyong in December 2005.
But we're not downgrading the performance of Alesprit, who won by 11 and 1/4 lengths. Not surprisingly, Rockhampton trainer Tom Bourke has fielded several offers for the filly.
The Australian 1000m record is 54.50 set by Straight Ace at Sandown in September 2001
Review of Rockhampton race times
Following a review of times recorded at the Rockhampton Jockey Club meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2009, Queensland Racing Limited has taken the decision to adjust the times recorded in all events and list all times on the day as being hand timed.
Race 1 - 56.76 Race 2 - 58.56 Race 3 - 58.64 Race 4 - 1:18.24 Race 5 - 1:17.16 Race 6 - 1:17.12 Race 7 - 1:03.20 Race 8 - 1:04.04
It appears that the electronic timing device has malfunctioned throughout the raceday and there were a number of discrepancies detected. Queensland Racing utilised extensive video technology to review the times and has advised the Rockhampton Jockey Club of this issue. The Rockhampton Jockey Club has committed to an audit of the electronic equipment by the manufacturer as soon as practical.
These results have been updated on IRIS and the QRL website, for more information please contact the racing department of Queensland Racing
When it comes to fast times, two-year-olds don't go much quicker than Alesprit, a Bel Esprit filly who clocked a track record 55.99sec for the Rockhampton 1000m on Tuesday.
Well, that's what we were led to believe until Queensland Racing conducted a review and all was not as it seems.
In fact, Alesprit clocked 56.76.
According to Racing Information Services Australia, the fastest time posted by a two year old is Gai Waterhouse's Pulsator, who ran 55.78sec at Wyong in December 2005.
But we're not downgrading the performance of Alesprit, who won by 11 and 1/4 lengths. Not surprisingly, Rockhampton trainer Tom Bourke has fielded several offers for the filly.
The Australian 1000m record is 54.50 set by Straight Ace at Sandown in September 2001
Review of Rockhampton race times
Following a review of times recorded at the Rockhampton Jockey Club meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2009, Queensland Racing Limited has taken the decision to adjust the times recorded in all events and list all times on the day as being hand timed.
Race 1 - 56.76 Race 2 - 58.56 Race 3 - 58.64 Race 4 - 1:18.24 Race 5 - 1:17.16 Race 6 - 1:17.12 Race 7 - 1:03.20 Race 8 - 1:04.04
It appears that the electronic timing device has malfunctioned throughout the raceday and there were a number of discrepancies detected. Queensland Racing utilised extensive video technology to review the times and has advised the Rockhampton Jockey Club of this issue. The Rockhampton Jockey Club has committed to an audit of the electronic equipment by the manufacturer as soon as practical.
These results have been updated on IRIS and the QRL website, for more information please contact the racing department of Queensland Racing
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Stellesprit 8/03/09
Stellesprit Gives a Stellar Performance at Corowa.
The photos tell the story
Left six lengths last at the start
First past the post
Owners: Miss A Bromley, P O'Brien, A Jones, R Stewart, C Williams & Miss A Jones
Trainer:Ms Mandie Jones
Jockey:Ms Shirley Hunter
Previous form:6L 7th of 12 6 Sep 2008 BERR E T M (MILES) GORMAN MDN PLATE MDN
950m G 0:56.08 SHIRLEY HUNTER (5) 58.0
Well done, Girls
Rich Esprit 8/03/09
Rich Esprit is Rich in Bloodlines
After winning a trial in the spring, Rich Esprit was produced today at Echuca in a 3YO Maiden Plate.
Starting at $2.20 favourite, she jumped OK and went to the front after 100 metres and was never headed for the rest of the journey, winning by one and a half lengths easing up, The way she went to the line after challenged in the straight augers well for the future.
Rich Esprit, by Bel Esprit, is trained by top Victorian trainer Peter Moody and owned by a few big racing names, L J Fleming (Proprietor, Eliza Park), A P Stein, B A Field, M Aurisch, D W Mazlin, C J Grady, A H Thom, J K Murdoch, M J Lilley & D R Grant (Operations Manager, Eliza Park) with the jockey today, Linda Meech.
The dam, Millrich, won the Group 3 STC Sweet Embrace Stakes and is the dam of Stakes winner Danerich, has a yearling by God's Own and went to Magnus this season.
After winning a trial in the spring, Rich Esprit was produced today at Echuca in a 3YO Maiden Plate.
Starting at $2.20 favourite, she jumped OK and went to the front after 100 metres and was never headed for the rest of the journey, winning by one and a half lengths easing up, The way she went to the line after challenged in the straight augers well for the future.
Rich Esprit, by Bel Esprit, is trained by top Victorian trainer Peter Moody and owned by a few big racing names, L J Fleming (Proprietor, Eliza Park), A P Stein, B A Field, M Aurisch, D W Mazlin, C J Grady, A H Thom, J K Murdoch, M J Lilley & D R Grant (Operations Manager, Eliza Park) with the jockey today, Linda Meech.
The dam, Millrich, won the Group 3 STC Sweet Embrace Stakes and is the dam of Stakes winner Danerich, has a yearling by God's Own and went to Magnus this season.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Belahina 6/03/09
Belahina Scores a Well Earned Win
After three 4ths and an unlucky 2nd in a photo finish in her second preparation, the ever consistent Belahina scored a one length win at Sale Today. Starting favourite at $2.20, Peter Mertens took the filly to the front on entering the straight and quickly created a three length break on the field, winning by one length from the fast finishing Avienus with Good Decision a further two lengths away in third place.
Congratulations go to the many happy Owners, T B O'Brien, Ms M J Maroszek, S T Maroszek, M Griffiths, S J Chalmers, T & Mrs S Bowler, A G & Mrs J Zoanetti & S R Marshall and well done to trainer John Moloney who bought a cracking colt by Bel Esprit out of Aura Raider for $30,000. at the Premier Yearling Sales this week. An astute judge told me the colt has great potential.
Fastest Progeny 6/03/09
Fastest Progeny of Bel Esprit.
Alesprit's race record prompts the question of which are the fastest racehorses from Bel Esprit's three crops.
Fastest Times
900m
GABBIDON----- 900 2yo M BR... 18-Oct-06.... 51.9
BEL SAID-------900 2yo MWBK.. 8-Jan-08.... 53.8
BEL SAID-------900 2yo MWBK 13-Apr-08.... 53.8
1000m
ALESPRIT----------1000 2yo ROCK..3-Mar-09......56.76
BELLS ALL ROUND 1000 3yo SW H.. 30-Sep-07.... 55.8
MILAKAI---------- -1000 4yo SW H.. 28-Sep-08.... 56.3
1100m
BEL ESPRIT---------1100 3yo CAUL...31-Aug-02....62
.......................................Caulfield record 61.84
ESPRIT LAD---------1100 4yo NMNE 17-Aug-08....63.9
LA BELLA ROO------1100 3yo BDGO..27-Nov-08....63.9
1200m
BEL MER------------1200 3yo CAUL..1-Mar-08....68.5
VIVACIOUS SPIRIT1200 3yo CAUL..9-Feb-08....69
ESPRIT LAD---------1200 4yo LTH....9-Aug-08....69.2
1300m
I'M ELITE-----------1300 3yo PINJ...1-Mar-09.....76.8
VIGNERON---------.1300 4yo CANB..19-Sep-08....77.4
PRINCESS SPARKLE1300 3yo GEES...25-Jul-08....77.7
1400m
BELCENTRA--------1400 3yo FLEM...6-Nov-07....83.1
BEAU ESPRIT------.1400 4yo WOD....23-Jan-09....83.8
GABBIDON---------.1400 3yo CAUL...22-Sep-07....83.9
SNIP ESPRIT-------.1400 3yo BLMT..3-May-08....83.9
1600m
KHAIRESPRIT------1600 4yo ARAT.....3-Feb-09....96.7
ESPRIT DE ROSES--1600 4yo MORP..29-Nov-08....96.8
KHAIRESPRIT------1600 4yo TER......20-Jan-09....96.9
Alesprit's race record prompts the question of which are the fastest racehorses from Bel Esprit's three crops.
Fastest Times
900m
GABBIDON----- 900 2yo M BR... 18-Oct-06.... 51.9
BEL SAID-------900 2yo MWBK.. 8-Jan-08.... 53.8
BEL SAID-------900 2yo MWBK 13-Apr-08.... 53.8
1000m
ALESPRIT----------1000 2yo ROCK..3-Mar-09......56.76
BELLS ALL ROUND 1000 3yo SW H.. 30-Sep-07.... 55.8
MILAKAI---------- -1000 4yo SW H.. 28-Sep-08.... 56.3
1100m
BEL ESPRIT---------1100 3yo CAUL...31-Aug-02....62
.......................................Caulfield record 61.84
ESPRIT LAD---------1100 4yo NMNE 17-Aug-08....63.9
LA BELLA ROO------1100 3yo BDGO..27-Nov-08....63.9
1200m
BEL MER------------1200 3yo CAUL..1-Mar-08....68.5
VIVACIOUS SPIRIT1200 3yo CAUL..9-Feb-08....69
ESPRIT LAD---------1200 4yo LTH....9-Aug-08....69.2
1300m
I'M ELITE-----------1300 3yo PINJ...1-Mar-09.....76.8
VIGNERON---------.1300 4yo CANB..19-Sep-08....77.4
PRINCESS SPARKLE1300 3yo GEES...25-Jul-08....77.7
1400m
BELCENTRA--------1400 3yo FLEM...6-Nov-07....83.1
BEAU ESPRIT------.1400 4yo WOD....23-Jan-09....83.8
GABBIDON---------.1400 3yo CAUL...22-Sep-07....83.9
SNIP ESPRIT-------.1400 3yo BLMT..3-May-08....83.9
1600m
KHAIRESPRIT------1600 4yo ARAT.....3-Feb-09....96.7
ESPRIT DE ROSES--1600 4yo MORP..29-Nov-08....96.8
KHAIRESPRIT------1600 4yo TER......20-Jan-09....96.9
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Mooring 4/03/09
Bel Mer's Brother Bolts in Singapore
Headstrong Mooring gets the job done
Craig Brennan
Mooring was the last to load into his inside draw, but began smartly before Fradd allowed Big Momoko to cross and lead and then easing to the outside of that filly.
Fradd held a firm rein on Mooring to the hometurn before quickly taking the lead and opening up a five length lead.
Despite getting tired he held sway to the line, running the smart time of 59.6 seconds.
“I suppose he was entitled to get weary,” said Freedman. “He’s run good time but he gets himself well and truly worked up.
“I’m hoping with a bit of racing and maturity he may learn to race a bit softer. If he could just look after himself mid-race I’m sure he could win a good race.”
For that reason Freedman has no specific plans with Mooring.
“There is no use making any plans with him at this stage,” said Freedman. “We’ll just keep racing him for the time being and hopefully he’ll settle down.
“Once he learns what its all about then we can think about loftier plans.”
Fradd echoed Freedman’s thoughts about Mooring and also believes there could be a good win in the gelding.
“He’s like riding five horses,” said Fradd. “He just goes that strong.
“He gets himself so worked up before the race. I’m sure that the more racing he gets and learns about it, the better he will become.”
Mooring was an A$130,000 yearling purchase in Australia. He’s from the At Talaq mare Drop Anchor and took his prizemoney past the $20,000 mark for the Mummify Stable with Wednesday night’s victory.
Headstrong Mooring gets the job done
Craig Brennan
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Described by trainer Michael Freedman as a “head case”, Mooring broke through for his initial victory in the $35,000 Maiden Stakes over 1000m on Wednesday night.
And in the process the three-year-old son of Bel Esprit went within 0.4 seconds of the 1000m course record on the Polytrack surface held by My Hero.
Ridden by Robbie Fradd, Mooring was getting tired over the final 100m but held on to defeat Magic Key (John Sundradas) by a length with Tough Question (Erasmus Aslam) four-and-a-half lengths back in third place.
Described by trainer Michael Freedman as a “head case”, Mooring broke through for his initial victory in the $35,000 Maiden Stakes over 1000m on Wednesday night.
And in the process the three-year-old son of Bel Esprit went within 0.4 seconds of the 1000m course record on the Polytrack surface held by My Hero.
Ridden by Robbie Fradd, Mooring was getting tired over the final 100m but held on to defeat Magic Key (John Sundradas) by a length with Tough Question (Erasmus Aslam) four-and-a-half lengths back in third place.
Mooring (Robbie Fradd) redeems himself on Wednesday after running last at debut.
Mooring was the last to load into his inside draw, but began smartly before Fradd allowed Big Momoko to cross and lead and then easing to the outside of that filly.
Fradd held a firm rein on Mooring to the hometurn before quickly taking the lead and opening up a five length lead.
Despite getting tired he held sway to the line, running the smart time of 59.6 seconds.
“I suppose he was entitled to get weary,” said Freedman. “He’s run good time but he gets himself well and truly worked up.
“I’m hoping with a bit of racing and maturity he may learn to race a bit softer. If he could just look after himself mid-race I’m sure he could win a good race.”
For that reason Freedman has no specific plans with Mooring.
“There is no use making any plans with him at this stage,” said Freedman. “We’ll just keep racing him for the time being and hopefully he’ll settle down.
“Once he learns what its all about then we can think about loftier plans.”
Fradd echoed Freedman’s thoughts about Mooring and also believes there could be a good win in the gelding.
“He’s like riding five horses,” said Fradd. “He just goes that strong.
“He gets himself so worked up before the race. I’m sure that the more racing he gets and learns about it, the better he will become.”
Mooring was an A$130,000 yearling purchase in Australia. He’s from the At Talaq mare Drop Anchor and took his prizemoney past the $20,000 mark for the Mummify Stable with Wednesday night’s victory.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Alesprit 3/03/09
Alesprit Breaks Course Record at Rockhampton
When Alesprit had her 1st start, she ran 4th and the Stewards reported she was slow to begin, the Vet report said she was lame in the off fore
Today was a different story, Alesprit, trained by Tom Bourke and ridden by Michael Cullen jumped from barrier 1 and broke Sequalo Morn's course record of 56.47 seconds set in 2007 by .48 of a second (3 lengths), running the 1000 metres in an amazing 55.99 seconds. The other 1000 metre races were run in 58.31 and 58.12.
This Bel Esprit filly won by eleven and one quarter lengths carrying 54.5kg and started favourite at $2.60
Owned by Mr S W & Mrs D F Everingham, Alesprit is out of a Rory's Jester mare, Rory's Babe who had five starts for one win at Sandown winning $27,300. The Filly was sold at the 2007 MM National Weanling Sale Select Session, Qld (236) by Oaklands Stud to MAGIC MILLIONS (AS AGENT) for $2,000 .Belle Society is another filly out of a Rory's Jester mare, Tendency, who has won.
Alesprit shatters sprint record
Tony Mcmahon 3rd March 2009
A COURSE record was shattered while behind the scenes integrity and technical science officers swooped and swabbed as many as 50 horses in a day of sensations at Rockhampton's Callaghan Park racecourse yesterday.
Awesome juvenile filly Alesprit (Michael Cullen, $2.60) took just 55.99 seconds to thrash her rivals in the opening race of the eight-race TAB card, the $20,000 QTIS 2YO Handicap (1000m).
She smashed the track record of 56.31 seconds held by open-class sprinter King Hunter.
What's more, juvenile Bel Esprit filly Alesprit could probably have gone faster in her freakish 11.25 lengths win as she wasn't pushed right out to the finish.
“It was only a matter of her jumping on terms with the field to win. If she jumped she just wins,” trainer Tom Bourke said of Baralaba owner Sid Everingham's filly.
Pin-hooked at the 2007 Magic Millions Weanling Sale for a meagre $2000, Alesprit was bought by Everingham for $32,000 when offered as a yearling by Kerrod and Glenda Smyth's Laurel Glen Equine Nursery at last year's Capricorn Yearling Sale.
Bourke said it was now likely that Alesprit would not race again before the $119,000 Capricorn Sales Classic (1200m) at Callaghan Park on Saturday, April 4.
“We will see how she pulls up. She had a few little leg issues last campaign but she is over them now,” he said.
At Alesprit's only other start before a stable change, she finished fourth at Callaghan Park on November 4, 2008, after being slow to begin and subsequently pulling up lame in the off foreleg.
The 1200 metres of the Classic shouldn't prove an obstacle for Alesprit, as her mother, the five-times-raced Rory's Jester mare Rory's Babe won over that distance at her only win, ironically almost seven years ago to the day in March, 2002, at Sandown, Melbourne.
Arguably the busiest spot at Callaghan Park was the swabbing stall as Brisbane based officials pre-race swabbed and post race swabbed 50 starters.
On arriving at their designated race-day stall, the officials swooped directing trainers to present selected horses for blood samples and in some case urine swabs.
“Some horses were pre-race swabbed while others were held on course for up to three hours to be post race swabbed,” Queensland Racing Limited's integrity investigative officer Bevan Turner said.
The “swabbing swoopers”, although unannounced, came as no surprise after rumours have been circulating in Rockhampton about horses being stomach tubed with substances, some within hours of race time.
To ascertain any legitimacy to these rumours, it is likely that officials will revert to a former practice, successful as a deterrent to unscrupulous trainers, whereby random visits are made to stables on race morning.
GOOD ALE SMASHES ROCKY RIVALS
We didn’t see the run, so not too sure if the filly had the use of an outboard motor, but Alesprit’s performance at Rockhampton yesterday (3 March) was monumental to say the least.
Having her second start on the central Queensland circuit, the Bel Esprit 2YO decimated rivals with an 11 and a quarter length victory over the 1000m, breaking 56 seconds in the process.
Trainer Tom Bourke obviously has a top notcher taking up box space and it shouldn’t be long before Alesprit makes a trip to the big smoke.
Sold for $35,000 at last year’s Capricorn Yearling Sale, Alesprit ran fourth on debut on Melbourne Cup day before being tipped out for almost four months.
The break has obviously done her the world of good with a 5.5 length trial victory preceding yesterday’s romp.
A daughter of the Rory’s Jester mare, Rory’s Babe, a city winner at two, the pedigree’s a little light on black type up close, but not on form. Indeed, although this is Rory’s Babe’s first winner from one to race, the previous four dams have produced 35 winners from 39 to race.
The Bel Esprit, Rory’s Jester cross is starting to take shape too with two winners from three runners, including debut winner Belle Society.
I'm Elite 1/03/09
I'm Elite and Very Fast
A very good trial followed by two seconds over 1000 metres and 1200 metres in his 1st preparation when he was immature, was the grounding for this big horse, I'm Elite. He was rested for sixty five days before he trialled and won over 1000 metres.
This was the build up to Sunday's start over 1400metres with prize money of $40,000 with a good class of 3 year olds. From barrier 9, he went forward and led all the way to win by one and three quarter lengths easing up, a very emphatic performance from this Bel Esprit Gelding.
I'm Elite is out of a Marauding Mare and the only other starters by Mares out of this Stallion are Dashing Spirit and Mythical Spirit, both winners. He sold for $30,000 at the Perth Magic Millions Sale in February 2007.
Another Colt out of a Marauding Mare was sold for the same price to John Moloney at the Inglis sales at Oatlands in Victoria, yesterday.
A very good trial followed by two seconds over 1000 metres and 1200 metres in his 1st preparation when he was immature, was the grounding for this big horse, I'm Elite. He was rested for sixty five days before he trialled and won over 1000 metres.
This was the build up to Sunday's start over 1400metres with prize money of $40,000 with a good class of 3 year olds. From barrier 9, he went forward and led all the way to win by one and three quarter lengths easing up, a very emphatic performance from this Bel Esprit Gelding.
I'm Elite is out of a Marauding Mare and the only other starters by Mares out of this Stallion are Dashing Spirit and Mythical Spirit, both winners. He sold for $30,000 at the Perth Magic Millions Sale in February 2007.
Another Colt out of a Marauding Mare was sold for the same price to John Moloney at the Inglis sales at Oatlands in Victoria, yesterday.
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