The regally bred STROLL made the perfect start to her career when comfortably disposing of maiden rivals at the Sunshine Coast’s Monday meeting.
Proven Thoroughbreds went to $450,000 to secure the daughter of SNITZEL at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale earlier this year so there was a palpable sense of relief after she got the job done as a heavily backed $1.65 favourite.
Admittedly, co-trainers Steve O’Dea and Matt Hoysted went into the 1000m contest with a good deal of confidence after STROLL had impressed in nearly all her preparatory work, including a brilliant trial win back on December 7.
Baylee Nothdurft was entrusted with the ride on Monday and despite being caught wide from an awkward draw, kept the filly balanced and in the slipstream of the leading trio.
Once the field straightened for home, Nothdurft eased STROLL into the clear, at which point it was evident his mount had plenty to give.
STROLL hit the front virtually under her own steam before being asked to extend over the final 100m, which she did, repelling a late challenger to score by more than three-quarters of a length.
Whilst she still has a long way to go in terms of living up to her price tag, we couldn’t have asked for a better start to her career.
STROLL’s ownership group includes many loyal Proven Thoroughbreds clients as well as the breeder Gerry Harvey of Baramul Stud.
Proven can now lay claim to 31 winners in the first five months of the season and 64 winners for the calendar year.