Date posted October 30, 2009 | Posted by Warren Wruck | Filed under
Racing and BreedingAn absorbing contest awaits: the Victorian Derby is one of those races where at times it is claimed that the superior three year old wins, irrespective of “staying” ability while at other times it is seen as a true (and early) test of stamina.
In a 2009 rendition of many chances, we should perhaps side to the latter argument. This race may well find a future staying star or two.
Shamoline Warrior made mince meat of his rivals in the Group 3 Norman Robinson Stakes
Nine colts and two geldings: much has also been spoken of the race’s lack of influence as a sire making race. There may well be a shift in that thought process. Blevic, and Arena have made their mark but the latest stallion to emerge from the ranks of the Classic’s honour roll is Elvstroem and while it can be argued that Elvstroem had much more to recommend him than a career-defining win in the Victorian Derby, as is the case with many others, he is a Victorian Derby winner nonetheless. And he is proving a success at stud.
The two who won’t be worried are Southern Skye and Prinsom, both gelded. It is such an even field on paper in all but only a couple of cases and the winner could come from any number of chances. It is also possible that the Kiwis could have a field day.
The Field.
1. Onemorenomore (Red Ransom – Palia by Last Tycoon). (Barrier: 5 Jockey: D. Oliver). Champagne Stakes winner of last season and not without a chance going on good last start 2nd in the Norman Robinson behind Shamoline Warrior. That was a return to form following some well documented performances where he has failed to settle early in his races. Each Way.
2. Viking Legend (Elvstroem – Innocent Baby by Jugah). (Barrier: 6 Jockey: B Shinn). Another with an each way chance – good fighting 3rd to Hanks and Spacecraft in the AAMI Vase.
3. Shamoline Warrior (Shamardal – Picholine by Dehere). (Barrier: 9 Jockey: M. Rodd). The favourite. Half-brother to last year’s winner Rebel Raider. Form excellent leading into this and looks one of the logical picks.
4. Monaco Consul (High Chaparral – Argante by Star Way). (Barrier: 1 Jockey: C. Brown). Winner of the Gr 1 Spring Champion Stakes, defeating Gathering and Viking Legend. Top chance.
5. Extra Zero (Danzero – Extra Bubbly by Bellotto). (Barrier: 7 Jockey: N. Rawiller). Rider criticised for last start performance and has to be considered on last two runs. Ran fourth in Caulfield Guineas (So You Think was fifth) and then fifth in Norman Robinson. Solid each way chance.
6. Gathering (Tale of the Cat – Celebria by Peintre Celebre). (Barrier: 8 Jockey:P. Robl). Looks the leader but then who thought So You Think would lead out in the Cox Plate?? Given his own way in front he may prove very hard to run down. But it is a long way home at Flemington. Good place chance and a win would not surprise.
7. Southern Skye (Danasinga – Aurora Australis by Southern Halo). (Barrier: 4 Jockey: D. Nikolic). Improved out of sight from 10th in Spring Champion to winning the Geelong Classic at next start, denting a few reputations into the bargain. A lot to like about his chances.
8. Our Heir Apparent (Zabeel – La Quinta Gold by Encosta de Lago). (Barrier: 10 Jockey: C. Williams). At only third race start, and first Australian start, ran second to Southern Skye in Geelong Classic. Like the winner, he came from a long way back. Big hope.
9. Prinsom (Red Ransom – Gaelic Princess by King of Kings). (Barrier: 3 Jockey: M. Zahra). Form not strong enough to tackle these with any confidence. No.
10. Rockferry (Pentire – Excelo by Centro). (Barrier: 2 Jockey: H. Bowman). Brother to the outstanding galloper Xcellent and like his brother, has ability. Still early days for this fellow but he may be a surprise packet. However, others have stronger form. Ran third to two of his opposition in Geelong Classic.
11. Commonage Close (Refuse to Bend – Silver’s Sister by Kenmare). (Barrier: 11 Jockey: C. Newitt). Only one second placing from nine starts. Not in this. Too rich.
Selections:
(4) Monaco Consul; (3) Shamoline Warrior; (8) Our Heir Apparent; (1) Onemorenomore; (7) Southern Skye; (5) Extra Zero.
Happy racing.
