Photo: Race Images South
A barnstorming finish carried progressive galloper Matscot (Haradasun x Bewarned) to his biggest career victory when he took out the Listed Sothys Spring Classic (2000m) at Riccarton on Saturday.
The six-year-old son of Haradasun has a real penchant for performing on his home track with Saturday’s victory being his fourth at the venue and the most important for trainer Sharon Robertson, who co-bred him and also shares in his ownership.
Rider Courtney Barnes gave her charge the perfect trip in transit as he lobbed along towards the rear of proceedings before beginning to get serious rounding the home bend.
Initially blocked for a run behind a wall of horses, Barnes eased Matscot across heels to make his final bid at the 200m and he unleashed a powerful sprint to race past eventual runner-up Charms Star to win by more than a length at the line.
Barnes was impressed by the effort which had been helped by an improvement in his barrier manners.
“He was very good and felt very powerful at the finish,” Barnes said.
“He has always had plenty of ability, but he could be slow away which affected where you could ride him.
“He got away nicely this time and although he hit a flat spot approaching the turn, I could feel him building underneath me which gave me plenty of confidence.
“When I asked him, he let down nicely and I think it was a very smart win.”
Mascot holds a nomination for the Gr.3 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m) on November 15, where Barnes thought he would be a strong contender with a light weight, especially with plenty of pace on in the race.
The highs and lows of racing were clearly evident for Barnes on the day as her mount in the last race on the card, Waihora Mist, knuckled over at the start and dislodged her.
“She just came out a little awkwardly and dropped me when she knuckled over,” she said.
“I’ve got a few bruises but nothing serious so I’m good to go again.”
TAB Bookmakers currently have Matscot rated as a $21 chance in the Coupland’s Bakeries Mile where It’s Business Time, who made it five wins in succession earlier in the day, is the $2.40 favourite.
