Making his first start for Kris Lees, the Lloyd Williams colour-bearer Hosier (IRE) proved the class act in Thursday’s $150,000 Moonee Beach Hotel Coffs Harbour Cup (1600m).
Ridden by Hugh Bowman, the 6yo son of Camelot defeated The Ritz (Mossman) by three-quarters of a length with Wairere Falls (Savabeel) a further half-length back in third.
It was back to back wins in the feature for Kris Lees who took over the training of Hosier from Robert Hickmott.
“He was good late, but he will improve off the run. He has a bit of cleaning up to do so onwards and upwards,” Lees said.
“He found under pressure which is what you want to see.”
Hosier arrived in Australia after placing once in two starts for Joseph O’Brien.
He has been a model of consistency in his adopted homeland improving his record to six wins, a second, and a third from ten starts with earnings of $255,540.
Bowman said the son of Camelot (IRE) has the tactical sped to put himself in the race.
“He’s a horse that makes his own luck and Mr Williams obviously sent him up here with a purpose. Kris has put the polish on and there is more in store for him,” Bowman said.
Hosier was purchased by O’Brien for €110 000 from the La Motteraye consignment at the 2018 Arqana August Yearling Sale.
He is out of the Group 1 Prix Diane runner-up Time Ahead (Spectrum), a half-sister to Group III Musidora stakes winner and multiple Group 1 placed Time Away (Darshaan), and a granddaughter of the champion Time Charter.
