King Of Light races into 2025 WA Guineas contention
Trainer Dan Morton has unearthed a potential star in King Of Light, who made a sparkling debut in the Tabtouch Place A Same Race Multi Plate (1300m) at Pinjarra on Saturday, winning with authority.
The promising youngster signaled his arrival with a swooping finish, positioning himself as one to watch for the upcoming Ascot carnival, with Morton keen to guide him toward more ambitious targets.
The son of Earthlight, who is being aimed at the WA Guineas (1600m), displayed an electric turn of foot from the back of the field to overhaul race favourite Aberdeen Flyer.
Jockey William Pike kept King Of Light out of trouble in the early stages before unleashing him late, where he coasted to a half-length win without being tested.
While it’s still early days, Morton was delighted with the performance and sees bright signs ahead.
“Very pleasing and he’s been a nice horse all the way through for us,” Morton said on Tabradio.
“To get the job done first up over 1300m was really good.
“He didn’t have the tools early to know what he was supposed to be doing, but probably fortunate to lob following the favourite.
“I was hopeful he would find plenty, but I fought the Sean Casy horse (Aberdeen Flyer) would trump us with race experience.
“There was a lot to like about our guy.”
Interestingly, Morton is considering a break for King Of Light despite the strong debut, preferring to bring him back later with the WA Guineas in mind.
“Normally speaking I do like to give them a couple to cement their prep,” Morton said.
“Horses like him you would naturally aim up at a Guineas, we’ll work backwards from that.”
Although the race is months away, Morton believes King Of Light has what it takes to become a genuine player in the spring features.
“You aim there.” Morton said.
“They obviously have to keep on improving, come back, run a mile out strong and all the rest of it.
“I don’t see any reason why he’s not the type of horse that will try to.”
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