Trainer Steven Burridge will look at a tougher test for Benji’s Empire after making it two in succession in the $95,000 Big Easy 2005 Stakes over 1400m on Sunday.
Photo by Singapore Turf Club
Leading from the outset, Benji’s Empire, ridden by apprentice Zuriman Zulkifli, held-on bravely to score by a half-length from Matterhorn (Stephen Baster) with Meteor Mike (Alan Munro) three-quarters-of-a-length away third.
The victory brought up a race-to-race double for Burridge who had earlier been successful with Devil’s Cut (Stephen Baster) in the $55,000 Mayo’s Music 2004 Stakes over 1200m.
Jumping straight to the front from barrier number three, Zuriman allowed Benji’s Empire to cruise along at the head of affairs before increasing the tempo coming off the back straight, but still travelling well within himself.
Turning for home Benji’s Empire held a five length advantage over Matterhorn and Raffaga. Whilst there were no signs of distress, the chasing pack was gradually making ground on the winner who responded gamely to Zuriman’s urgings.
Burridge said he would now consider stepping Benji’s Empire up to Group 2 company in the $350,000 E W Barker Trophy over 1400m on November 9.
He said three months ago that sort of race would not have ever been contemplated but with the gelding having now won three of his last seven starts it is worth considering.
“I suppose we have to start thinking about the E W Barker,” said Burridge. “The race is three weeks away and his form is good.
“Three months ago I wouldn’t have even thought about it, but he’s turned his form around and is going so well.”
Burridge said because of Benji’s Empire hard going nature the gelding rarely saw the training tracks at the Singapore Turf Club.
“He does a lot of his work on the treadmill because he works too hard when he comes to the track,” said Burridge.
“I was a little concerned with him in the going today although he had got through it OK previously, but certainly not anything this wet.
“The lightweight certainly helped him today and he appreciated getting his own way in front.
“The boy rode him really well and he kept it going all the way to the finish.”
The double took Burridge’s tally for 2012 to 66, placing him two wins clear of Michael Freedman in the Trainer’s Premiership race.
A six-year-old Australian-bred by King Charlemagne from the Eagle Eyed mare Margareda, Benji’s Empire has won seven of his 37 starts with a further seven minor placings and Sunday’s victrory took his prizemoney past the $300,000 mark for the B & J Stable.
