As a racehorse, Champion 2YO Pierro was renowned for his tenacity in a tight finish and that unshakeable will to win was seen in his son War Eternal on Saturday at Randwick.
Fifth and third at his first two starts, the Bjorn Baker trained colt was fit and ready for the 1400m and despite being held up for a run in the straight, he finished with a determined rush to win by a short head.
“He was strong through the line and there is more to come once he works it all out,” said winning rider Kerrin McEvoy.
War Eternal was a $160,000 Karaka Book 1 purchase for Bjorn Baker Racing / Clarke Bloodstock from the Cambridge Stud draft and has already won $94,700 in prizemoney.
“Hats off to James Clarke, who found him and bought him and now he’s a two year-old Randwick winner on a Saturday,” said Bjorn Baker.
“He has a great group of owners.
“He relaxed well and has a big future going forward.”
War Eternal was bred by Cambridge Stud and is the first winner for Aleria, a placed full sister to Group II placed Thorondor from stakes-winner Impressive Eagle.
The family has produced Group I Queensland Derby winner Eagle Way, so War Eternal may well get longer trips at three.
War Eternal is the 99th Australian winner this season for Pierro, who stands at Coolmore this spring at a fee of $110,000.
