The Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained Grand Bernini scored his maiden victory at Moe on Wednesday, which was nearly as eye-catching as his colour.
The white
son of Shamexpress disappointed on debut when tailing the field home at
Bairnsdale last month. However, he more than made up for that performance at
Moe on Wednesday, winning his 1014m maiden contest by five lengths.
"Being a small field we got away well and it was important to get him into a good rhythm. He had a few gear changes today, which also helped him," jockey Jye McNeil said.
"Hopefully he can mature and go on through the grades."
Stable representative Mark Larker was happy with the run and said Grand Bernini's trainers have taken a patient approach with their showy runner.
"The horse has got ability, he has put together some really nice gallops at Sandown. He's still learning his craft and when he does gallop properly at Sandown he gallops beautifully," Larker said.
"Ciaron and David have been patient with him and I think that is the key going forward."
Grand Bernini was purchased by Ciaron Maher in partnership with the China Horse Club for $510,000 out of Windsor Park Stud's 2017 New Zealand Bloodstock Premier Yearling Sale draft. - NZ Racing Desk
