Reata surged home from back in the field to win the 1200 metre maiden running away.
Prepared by Robbie Laing, Reata was shaping up as a potential Derby colt last
spring before knocking his leg in a trial which resulted in the formation of a
nasty splint below his knee.As a result he spent most of last season in the paddock before returning to make his debut with a strong finishing third at Cranbourne on April 28.
Sent to Caulfield for his next start on May 13, Reata finished a bad last, but there were valid excuses for the poor showing.
"The win today didn't surprise us, he's always shown that sort of ability," said Robbie Laing.
"He was poleaxed at Caulfield before the home turn and nearly went over the fence. He wrenched his joint and was lame afterwards, so has been away from the races since then.
"We thought he was a Derby colt as a two year-old. When he gets up to 2000 metres, I think we'll have a decent horse."
Laing has already had success with So You Think, training his Group I placed colt So Si Bon, who has won over $230,000 in prizemoney.
A $160,000 Magic Millions purchase for his trainer from the Coolmore draft, Reata is the second winner from good metropolitan winner Dantibes Rhythm.
Reata is the first winner of the new season for champion racehorse So You Think, who has several bright prospects already warming up for spring in D'Argento and Calculated.
