Tyreek scores a touchdown on debut at Canterbury

Promising colt Tyreek announced himself as a galloper to watch with a determined debut win at Canterbury for trainer John O’Shea. Despite an awkward start and lacking race experience, the son of NFL star namesake Tyreek Hill produced a big finish to win the TAB Handicap (1200m) on Wednesday.

“Usually when a horse can overcome adversity like that first-up, it’s a really good sign,” O’Shea said. “There’s a lot more to come from him. He’s got scope, and he’s very athletic — he’ll take improvement from that.”

Tyreek ($5), ridden by Dylan Gibbons, came from the rear of the field to edge out race favourite Burma Star ($4), who had some high-quality juvenile form, including a placing behind the stakes winner King Of Pop. Gibbons noted the poor start ended up being a blessing in disguise.

“It actually worked in our favour. He’s a bit laid-back and having something to chase really lit him up,” Gibbons said. “He reminds me of his namesake — fast and sharp. He’s got a good future.”

Later on the program, Island Dream delivered another strong showing for trainer Chris Waller, winning second-up over 1550m. The mare resumed well this preparation, and Waller has long-term ambitions to get her to black-type company.

“She went around in a Listed race at the end of last prep and she’s come back the right way,” Waller said. “We’ll take our time with her and aim towards something like the Aspiration or Epona in the autumn.”

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