Dominant Ken Russell Memorial Classic win for $2.7m colt St Gotthard
St Gotthard validated his hefty $2.7 million tag by delivering a spectacular performance to claim the Group 3 $200,000 Ken Russell Memorial Classic (1200m) at Gold Coast on Saturday.
Under trainer Chris Waller, the youngster was on his second race appearance and extended his flawless slate by drawing away from competitors.
James McDonald, the elite rider aboard for both runs, ranks as the top enthusiast for the promising colt already.
"He cost a lot of money but he has a beautiful temperament, killer looks and incredible acceleration – he's a beauty, he's all class,'' McDonald said.
As the $2.40 market elect, St Gotthard settled back, shifted wide around the bend and exploded late to prevail by a growing four lengths margin ahead of Silken Salute ($8.50), with Boomelli ($8.50) one length back in third.
A finely bred juvenile son of Snitzel from import Ms Bad Behaviour, out of Arrowfield Stud, St Gotthard is a full-brother to elite Group 1 winner Switzerland, acquired by Coolmore-led syndicate for $2.7 million at Inglis Easter Yearling Sale last year.
Having also schooled Group 1 hero Switzerland, Waller showed restraint with St Gotthard, bypassing a tilt at the Golden Slipper in the autumn series.
St Gotthard instead enjoyed a subdued debut triumph at Warwick Farm and stepped up markedly at the Gold Coast circuit.
Waller stayed away from the Gold Coast track, but rep Darren Beadman hailed the grand St Gotthard as a "classic looking colt".
"He could have easily lined up in some of the bigger races over the autumn carnival but Chris, being the trainer he is, treats them all as individuals and gave this colt time and it is getting dividends now,'' Beadman said.
"It was just nice to see him add another dimension to his race pattern today. They went quite quick up front but he sat back 'curling the mo' behind them then let loose in the straight.''
The colt's standout effort tightened his quote from $8 to $3.50 co-favourite with The Next Episode ahead of the Group 2 $1 million BRC Sires' Produce Stakes (1400m) over 1400m at Eagle Farm on May 30.
Visit top online bookmakers to check betting markets for the race like the BRC Sires' Produce Stakes.
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