Ever since her terrific maiden win at just her third start at Sandown – in a BM64 mind you – Nigel and connections have held a good opinion of FASTBROOK. In eight subsequent starts however she recorded just the one other victory, at Wangaratta. But that record does not tell the full tale.
Nigel and the team of Assistant Trainer Kasey Loftus, all the staff, farrier, massage therapists and veterinarians have had to contend with a few little niggles.
In late 2017 she was found to be a tender in the feet and fetlocks, with changes evident in her pedal bones (the main bone within the hood) and navicular bones (small bone that sits deep within the hoof at the back junction of the coffin bone and the short pastern bone).
A lot of that explained the inconsistency in her race performances. Not only was this causing some tenderness when put under race pressure, such issues translate into other problems with the body – in Fastbrook’s case, her hips and lumbar spine.
Just some time and care was needed, and thats what the connections agreed to provide her.
Since her return to racing in May, she has gradually increased in fitness after some really nice jump outs at Flemington. Once rain arrived and she found herself on a softer racing surface, she has shown her true form culminating in a slashing victory at Cranbourne on Thursday 5 July.
Expect to see Fastbrook continue to race predominantly on surfaces with a bit of moisture. She appreciates the soft going.
As you can see in this race replay, she finished very strongly from back in the field, with Michael Dee summing up the race tempo perfectly and produced her at the right time upon straightening. It was a commanding victory.
That’s three wins now for this daughter of HINCHINBROOK. Out of a half-sister to Group winner MUSIDORA (dam of Tulip and Sacred Eye), Fastbrook is assured of a loving and fruitful career in the breeding barn – but not before more victories if her powerful win at Cranbourne is any guide.
We are very pleased for the ownership group showing so much patience. And thanks to the entire team for managing her so well.
