An exciting staying prospect was unearthed at Newcastle on Saturday when Casual Connection stormed down the centre of the track to register a stylish maiden victory in the $40,000 Tooheys New Rugby League Maiden Plate over 1600m.
Ridden by Rory Hutchings, the son of Complacent settled midfield one off the fence and quickly found a beautiful rhythm in the race. With speed on up front, he was able to blend into the race smoothly around the bend and when Rory pushed the go button over the final 300m a quick burst of acceleration sealed an impressive win.
“Good to get a well-deserved victory today. Perfect out the barriers sat back one off the fence and travelled well throughout. When we balanced up, he was still a bit raw but he was really good inside the last 100m. Still plenty of improvement there” said Rory Hutchings
Initially in the care of Tony Pike in New Zealand, Casual Connection showed plenty of early promise and he managed to capture the attention of astute bloodstock agent Phil Cataldo one morning at trackwork.
Phil was quick to open dialogue with owner Simms Davison about a possible purchase and transfer across to Australia. After a price had been agreed, the colt completed his pre purchase inspection and unfortunately failed his vetting.
Once the sale was called off, the colt was sent back to Mapperley for an extended break and relished his time on the famous rolling hills. A horse with clear ability, a plan was hatched to send him across to Australia to join the John Sargent stable at Royal Randwick.
The promising stayer is now raced by his trainer John Sargent, Mapperley Stud and Kit Davison. On his first race day experience he ran eye catching 3rd at Kembla Grange over 1400m which justified the decision on sending across the Tasman.
At Newcastle, he relished his first test at the mile and showed his strength at the end to power through the line suggesting there is plenty more wins in store for the progressive galloper.
“He’s a promising horse this one, when he’s had a bit more time to mature, he’s going to come back a really nice stayer in the Autumn” said trainer John Sargent
“It was a strong win, he ticked the heavy track box, so that’s a plus and now we look to step him up to 2000m next time. He’s a very promising galloper and I’ll think he will end up in the city over ground because we know he’s going to stay.”
The next target will be set in a fortnight for the promising galloper who will look to step up to 2000m for the first time.
Σχόλια