Barrier attendants were given special praise by jockey Joao Moreira after US-bred sprinter California Eagle bounced back to the winner’s circle in the $55,000 Open Benchmark 67 race over 1000m on Polytrack on Friday.
Photo by Singapore Turf Club
Moreira said the three-year-old colt by Whywhywhy did himself in at his last run when he “started digging a hole” inside his gate, subsequently slightly missing the start to run third. The handlers were better prepared for him this time.
The previous two-time winner (both over 1000m) was on his best behaviour, standing still in his barrier No 2, and jumped on terms with the rest of the field. Moreira had to dig him up early, though, when Super Spirit (Danny Beasley) and Chino Diablo (Sam Subian) shot straight past to take up the running.
Super Spirit led at a steady tempo, but was left with no answer when California Eagle was peeled out wide for his move. In one fell swoop, Kok’s valiant sprinter hit the lead before pulling away for an impressive 1 ¾ length win from Angry Cat (A’Isisuhairi Kasim) with Flag Of Command (Shafiq Rizuan) third another 1 ¼ lengths away.
Owned by the California Stable, California Eagle ($9) ran the 1000m in 58.9 seconds and has now brought his earnings close to the $120,000 mark.
“Last time, he lost because he was digging a hole in his gate. He was not concentrating and was a little bit slow into stride and I think that cost him the race,” said Moreira.
“But the guy behind the gates did a great job with him today. He didn’t dig a hole and began very well.
“They went crazy in front, and that worked out perfectly for him. He settled just behind the speed and put himself in the right spot.
“Once I got him on the outside, he put the race away easily. Thanks once again to the owner and the trainer for putting me on this horse, and all the team that looks after him.”
Kok was suitably impressed with the win (14th for the year) but said he would not test California Eagle over further for the time being.
“He’s a good sprinter, but still very immature,” said Kok. "He’s a very late foal as he only just turned three-year-old today. So he gave himself a nice birthday present.
“I think I may push him to 1200m max, and give him a run on turf as well. I don’t think turf will be a problem for him.
"I'm also very happy for the owner. He has a very good horse.”
