“A standout colt, I love him.”
Those were the words of Nigel every time he inspected a yearling colt by Stravinsky (USA) out of the good racemare and producer Octapussy at the 2015 New Zealand Bloodstock Karaka yearling sale. That colt now named Inside Agent, stepped out at just his second race start to win the Listed Poseidon Stakes at Flemington on Sunday.
At his first race start two weeks earlier at Caulfield, Inside Agent displayed a glimpse of the talent he has been showing in the early hours each morning. Missing the start by several lengths, Inside Agent gathered himself up and found his rhythm in the closing stages to fly home between runners and be beaten just over two lengths.
Inside Agent again found himself racing back in town, with Nigel not prepared to risk his promising colt on a heavy track at Bendigo on Thursday. Thankfully, the Poseidon Stakes was being run at our home track, and Inside Agent was better for first race experience.
The step up to 1400m at his second start proved to be no concern, and his pre-race behaviour was exemplary. Inside Agent was allowed to settle at the rear of the field from barrier 9 in the 11 horse field, planned partly with the knowledge that Inside Agent is still learning and “finding his feet”, but also to take cover from the strong wind. Inside Agent’s acceleration was great to see, rounding up the entire field to score by a half length.
Watch the replay
Michael Walker’s knowledge of this colt played a big part in Inside Agent’s win. Having trialled him twice at Flemington and ridden him in track work several times, Michael has developed a bond with him and knows his traits. This bond was only briefly separated at his first race start due to suspension, so we were thrilled to welcome him back on board.
“Hopefully, there’s some very exciting things ahead of him.” Trainer Nigel Blackiston impressed with Inside Agent’s Poseidon Stakes win. pic.twitter.com/BQqrlqUYYo
— Racing.com (@Racing) October 2, 2016
Inside Agent’s victory is well-deserved for his owners. The selection process for the 2015 NZ Bloodstock Karaka Sales started a few months prior with Nigel’s trip to several stud farms to inspect the yearlings and develop a shortlist. In collaboration with staff and owners, budgets were set and ownership groups pulled together to entrust Nigel to select the right horses at the right prices. We thank this great group of owners for that trust.
Congratulations also to Sir Patrick Hogan of Cambridge Stud and Peter Walker who bred this colt out of their good mare Octapussy. It’s great to wind back the clock and listen to Sir Patrick talk about this colt, after Nigel secured him for NZD 180,000.
“Just don’t give him a name with Pussy in it, please”, were Sir Patrick’s naming instructions.
“He is a magnificent beast.” Hear that comment, and more from Nigel.
The Listed Gothic Stakes in two weeks time at Caulfield is an ideal path towards higher class races.
Congratulations to: John & Diane Clark, Matt & Gabby Ramunno, Barnadown Racing 2 Syndicate (Mgr: Paul Sharkey), Max Marriott, Ray Kennelly, Alan Myott, David and Jenny Miller, Jeanette Smith, Howard Asher & Vicki Morzinek, Peter Mckay, Peter Rossdale, Chris Chilton, Will Chilton, Sir Patrick Hogan & Peter Walker.
