A hard-fought victory from NAVAL TRADER has seen the gelding post one of the fastest sectionals of the day at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
The son of Group 1-winning colt MERCHANT NAVY was left a sitting duck after camping just off a hot tempo before hitting the front halfway up the straight.
NAVAL TRADER ($2.40) staved off the late challengers to beat IVERSON ($4.40) by three-quarters of a length with another two lengths to MAYFAIR SPIRIT ($20) in third.
Naval Trader wins at Eagle Farm for @ODeaHoysted with @justinh_23 in the saddle!@BrisRacingClub pic.twitter.com/D2rEY57RlP
— SKY Racing (@SkyRacingAU) March 16, 2024
“He’s had to show a bit of experience today,” jockey Justin Huxtable said.
“We began only moderately and ended up in the third pair back. But the tempo was strong and I was able to chime in around the circle.
“The horse went through his gears and to his credit he’s led them up the straight on his own. It was a very creditable win.”
NAVAL TRADER recorded the 5th fastest last 1200m of the meeting and his 11.28 sectional between the 600m to 400m was the 3rd fastest of the day.
“He’s had three runs this prep and they’ve all ranked inside his top four career peak ratings,” times analyst Nic Ashman said.
“A strong win here and don’t forget he recorded the fastest last 1200m of the day at his previous run. His data is indicative of a horse that is in career best form with more to come. It’s a credit to Steve and Matt who have been patient with him.”
NAVAL TRADER was a $120,000 yearling purchase at the Inglis Australian Easter Yearling sales and has now amassed $134,600.
