The decision of Annabel Neasham to bypass the 1200m maiden in favour of the 1400m maiden for Ostraka at Rosehill paid off spectacularly when the son of Pariah cruised to a two-and-a-half length win.
Given a positive ride by Chad Schofield, Ostraka defeated the Capitalist colt Kaizad, with The Autumn Sun filly Autumnmation a half-neck back in third.
It was the fourth start for Ostraka, which was coming off a second at Rosehill and third at Canterbury.
“He’s a colt we have always loved but did not think it would take this long to break the maiden,” Annabel Neasham said.
“We have been patient, and the owners have been great. I kept saying that I’m sure he is a city horse.
“Today, we had him in the 1200 m race as well. We thought that stepping up to the 1400m would suit, and he hit the line well.
“He will keep improving. He still has quite a bit of development to come; he has a great mind, and am looking forward to getting him up through the grades.”
A $150,000 purchase for Annabel Neasham Racing / B McGuire / Stallion Match / Mitchell Bloodstock (FBAA) from the Arrowfield Stud draft at the 2022 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale, Ostraka is a half-brother to Widden Stud’s brilliant Group III ATC San Domenico Stakes, winner Anders (Not A Single Doubt).
He is the fifth winner for the unraced War Emblem mare Madame Andree, who is also the dam of stakes-placegetters Battleground (Snitzel) and Satin Love (Snitzel).
After foaling a Snitzel filly last spring, Madame Andree revisited Snitzel.
After beginning his career at Arrowfield Stud, Pariah stands at Oaklands Stud for a fee of $8,800.
