The Cliff Brown yard enjoyed a perfect Sunday with a win from their sole runner of the day, Gold Strike.
The Irish-bred three-year-old by Iffraaj was given a well-timed run by jockey Barend Vorster to down favourite Grand Knight (Nooresh Juglall) by half-a-length in the $20,000 Open Maiden race over 1200m.
With Brown not on hand, it was assistant-trainer Tim Fitzsimmons who did the honours of leading their 17th winner for the year.
The Australian horseman said the low representation was not by design, but they would be back with a stronger team at the Group 1 Charity Bowl meeting next Sunday.
“Looking at the races today, we had only one horse that was suited, and he’s won. One winner from one runner, can’t complain, we’ll have more runners next week,” said Fitzsimmons.
“It’s also great to train another winner for the Yong family. Mr Yong’s a great owner and has been one of our biggest supporters.
“We gave this horse a bit of a chance. He was caught deep at his last start and his first two runs were encouraging (two fourths).
“He’s still new and learning what racing is all about. He will win over 1400m eventually.”
Vorster would know first-hand what Fitzsimmons was talking about. The South African was glad he had snapped a run of outs (since First Choice on April 24), but also got the “bum deal” after crossing the line.
Gold Strike suddenly shied away on pulling up, dumping his rider, luckily without any serious consequences.
“A horse came past him, and because he had blinkers on, he didn’t see him coming and took fright,” said Vorster who partnered Gold Strike at his last two starts.
“But I’m happy to have won on him, especially for the Yong family, who is always a pleasure to ride for. The horse is still immature, but he’s on the way up and 1200m seems to be his best trip.
“It’s been a bit quiet for me this year. I really appreciate the support from those who have stuck with me.”
Grand Knight looked like he would scamper off at the top of the straight when he collared fading race-leader Ol Mate Buzzer (Simon Kok Wei Hoong), but Gold Strike ($56) came off a cosy rail-hugging run in centrefield to reel in the 2-1 favourite. The winning margin was half-a-length with Bejewelled (Vlad Duric) third another two lengths away.
Gold Strike clocked the smart time of 1min 10.35secs for the 1200m on the Short Course.
