Prepared by renowned trainer of stayers John Sargent, Home Ground was a
Breednet 'One to Watch' when winning at Wyong as a two year-old and was subsequently
not disgraced when finishing fifth to The Autumn Sun in the Group I BRC JJ Atkins
Stakes.A last start eighth in the Group I ATC Spring Champion Stakes, Home Ground appreciated firmer ground and a step up in distance to 2200 metres, powering to the line to nose out Frankel colt Farooq, who led for most of the trip and fought bravely to the line.
"We thought this race would suit him," said John Sargent.
"He was only four or five lengths off Gai and Adrian's colt (Thinkin' Big) last start and he's favourite for the Derby.
"He's a grinding stayer and he's bred to see the trip out. He'll go straight into the Derby now."
The 121st stakes-winner worldwide for High Chaparral, Home Ground has won three races from eight starts earning over $100,000 in prizemoney.
A $420,000 Inglis Easter purchase for Apollo Ng from the Coolmore draft, Home Ground was bred by Kerry and Jenny Pooley and foaled and raised at Coolmore (pictured below as a foal).
He
is from the last crop of foals by High Chaparral and is the first winner for
smart Danehill Dancer (IRE) winner First Look, a full sister to stakes-winner
Danehill Smile.
First Look has a yearling filly by So You Think and was covered last spring by Pierro.
First Look has a yearling filly by So You Think and was covered last spring by Pierro.
