We are well and truly in the depths of winter but already there are signs of spring.
Our top class colt SESAR (pictured) is due to return from a freshen-up in Saturday’s Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield where a mouth-watering clash with MYSTIC JOURNEY awaits.
It is hoped that Saturday’s race will serve as a springboard to Group 1 targets for SESAR, who has already taken our owners on a wonderful ride with more than $400k banked from just eight race starts. As per our agreement with Aquis Farm, the colt has been leased back to the Proven Thoroughbreds syndicate until stud duties call.
BLACKBOOKER: RECKLESS CHOICE put in as good a trial as you will see last week and is scheduled to make his anticipated return to racing on August 17 in a 1200m Class 6 at Eagle Farm.
Upcoming Proven Thoroughbreds runners:
Kembla Thursday July 25
Maiden 1300m/3YO Maiden 1400m:
Joe Pride/Jay Ford
Comment: Was the victim of a walkathon last start when trapped three wide around 1200m at Gosford. Despite finishing fifth, he clocked the second fastest last 600m so expect the extra distance to suit here.
Caulfield Saturday July 27
Group 3 Bletchingly Stakes 1200m:
Hawkes Racing/Michael Walker
Comment: Returns from a freshen-up after an outstanding win first-up at Randwick on June 22. Steps up to weight-for-age company for the first time and faces a formidable opponent in Mystic Journey but looks up to the task.
Eagle Farm Saturday July 27
BM70 1500m:
Steve O’Dea/Jim Byrne
Comment: In winning form and shouldn’t have any problems negotiating 1500m for the first time. Would prefer some rain but a good chance all the same.
BM70 1000m:
SO SPIRITED
Steve O’Dea/Ron Stewart
Comment: Trialled up nicely for this and is yet to run a bad race since relocating to Queensland three starts ago. Due for a change of luck with barriers and strikes a suitable race first-up.
Rosehill Saturday July 27
Highway Class 3 Plate 1500m:
SHOW ME THE HONEY
John Bateman/Blaike McDougall
Comment: Can be a bit hot and cold but looks very well placed in this event. Yet to be tested beyond 1400m but gives the impression it could incite some improvement.