WA Racing News Update
19 March, 2019
Thoroughbred
MATERIAL MAN
Material Man’s eastern States campaign has come to an end.
Trainer Justin Warwick confirmed there are no issues or injury concerns with his star seven-year-old, but admitted he did pull up tired from his run in Saturday’s All-Star Mile.
Material Man ran 10th to Mystic Journey, but after overcoming a virus and lameness in the lead-up to the All-Star Mile, he will return home to Perth for a well-deserved spell.
SARACINO
The Chris Gangemi is considering gear adjustments for Saracino after another disappointing run at Ascot last weekend.
The three-time group winner ran sixth to Dam Ready on Saturday, to go with his 9th of 10 when making his his Perth debut in last year’s Prince Of Wales Stakes.
Stable representative Micahel Gangemi said gelding pulled up rough after running quick early sectionals when attempting to lead throughout with 60.5kg.
The Gangemi team are hoping gear changes will help replicate Saracino’s brilliant trial and track work and help revive his fortunes in the west.
ANGELIC RULER
Angelic Ruler had her final hit out ahead of the Alexandra Stakes yesterday (Monday) and came through it well, according to jockey, Damian Lane.
He said the Dan and Bean Pearce-trained filly handled the tight Moonee Valley track in good order and was spot on for Friday’s Group 3 assignment over 1600m.
The Alexandra Stakes could be Angelic Ruler’s final run this preparation, but Ben Pearce hasn’t ruled out the Sangster Stakes in Adelaide on May 4.
Angelic Ruler deserves a slice of luck after her second in the Armanasco Stakes (1400m) at Caulfield and third in the Kewney Stakes (1400m) at Flemington.
JOE AZZOPARDI/CHLOE AZZOPARDI
Joe Azzopardi says he will finalise plans on extending his stay in Perth to take in the WA Oaks in the next few days, but his priority remained fulfilling his Singapore contract.
Azzopardi rode Jedaffair into Oaks calculations last weekend when he combined with the bargain buy filly to take out the Natasha Stakes in commanding fashion.
While one Azzopardi is soon leaving, another is making an imminent return to the saddle.
Azzopardi’s sister, Chloe’s comeback to riding drew a step closer when she rode in six trials at Belmont on Monday.
Azzopardi last rode at Northam four years ago and posted her previous win on Rebelson at Belmont in 2015.
Before her break she complied 65 wins including 8 in the city, 16 in the provincials and 41 in the country.
BOB PETERS
Leading owner-breeder Bob Peters said Adornment, Vinaceous and Dark Choice will progress to the WA Oaks after coming through their runs in Saturday’s Natasha Stakes.
As too Regal Power, who will go to the Melvista Stakes (2200m) ahead of the WA Derby.
However, Final Hearing’s WA Derby tilt has been shelved. He will now be aimed at the shorter journey of the Raconteur Stakes over 1500m.
PLATOON/NEVILLE PARNHAM
Neville Parnham said he was thrilled how Platoon had recovered from his J.C.Roberts Stakes victory.
The Hall Of Fame trainer said Platoon can only improve after just three runs in and indications are he is not fully fit yet.
He says the 2200m of the Melvista Stakes won’t bother Platoon.
Parnham said he will also be taking a patient approach with his two-year-old colt Annihilator, who posted a smart trial win on Monday.
FALCON CREST
After 9 wins, 6 seconds and five thirds for Adam Durrant and Grant and Alana Williams, Falcon Crest has joined the stables of young trainer, Steele Casey.
This time last year, Falcon Crest was flying with wins in the Detonator Stakes, Grandstand Cup and Old Comrade Stakes.
EMMA STENT
Emma Stent will carry the Western Australian colours in the third leg of the National Apprentice Series at Doomben on Wednesday.
Stent takes up the ride aboard the Toby Edmonds-trained filly, Elusive Melody, a winner at her past two starts on the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast.
VALE DAVE JONES
Condolences to the family of David Jones, who passed away on Sunday after a long battle with his health.
Jones, a former apprentice, was a loveable larrikin and leaves behind wife, Toni and sons Shane and Jason.
Julio Santarelli.