King Back To His Best
3 February, 2018
Thoroughbred
Rebel King has delivered trainer Darren McAuliffe his second win in the Listed Scenic Blast Stakes (1200m), with an impressive return to racing at Ascot this afternoon.
After having his spring campaign cut to just two starts, Rebel King produced an eye catching trial on Monday, and brought that form to Ascot today to take out the $100,000 feature.
Having his first start since running third in the Birthday Stakes in October, Rebel King was given the perfect ride by Chris Parnham, landing in fourth place behind the leaders Battle Hero and Caipirinha.
The six-year-old proved too sharp for a game Battle Hero, who fought on to finish second three-quarters of a length away, while Dainty Tess was outstanding once again in third.
Parnham was the beneficiary from William Pike’s decision to take the ride on Dainty Tess, and said he was only too happy to ride Rebel King.
“I thought I was on the best horse in the race,” he said.
“This horse had every chance, he trialled well on Monday and was beautifully prepared.
“After seeing the trial, I thought I was on the best horse in the race.”
After finishing unplaced in the Batavia Sprint at Geraldton last April, Rebel King required a wind operation, before issues with his feet plagued his spring campaign.
Trainer Darren McAuliffe confirmed post-race the son of Universal Ruler would head to the Listed Pinjarra Classic (1300m) on February 25, and indicated he was also keen to stretch him to the 1400m of the Bunbury Classic next month.
The win took Rebel King’s record to 10 wins from 36 starts, and it was his second Listed win, after he took out the Bolton Sprint in 2015.
Caipirinha started favourite in the Scenic Blast Stakes, but could only manage a sixth place finish and trainer Simon Miller said the mare would be spelled.
Dainty Tess is also set to head to the spelling paddock for a short break, as connections plan a possible trip to the east coast.
Tim Walker