Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr’s yard got a taste of Buggsy’s ability before his purchase from the Ready To Run sale the previous year.
The son of Harry Angel justified the faith of his handlers and backers by taking out the Sportsbet Jockey Watch Handicap (1000m) on his debut at Sandown last Wednesday.
Sandown Hillside Race 1 | Buggsy
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Last October’s $300,000 Inglis Ready To Run Sale purchase was given time off without delay.
Kent Jnr explained how the respite helped the two-year-old immensely, culminating in a Caulfield Heath trial conquest last month that readied him for the track.
Ridden by Craig Williams into the $2.20 favourite spot, Buggsy scored by 1-¼ lengths from Money Honey ($11), seeing off Macedon Mission ($71) by a neck for third.
“He was very well prepared by Hanover Lodge, but you can tell he lacks that race experience,” Kent Jnr said.
“He was off the bridle quite early but then had to dig deep and his best work was late.”
The colt will sharpen up with experience, but Kent Jnr was impressed by his adaptation to conditions at Sandown.
“He’s quite a busy brained horse at home,” Kent Jnr said.
“I think it’s testament to our system. He’s been to the Rosehill stable, transferred to the Cranbourne stable and that’s really brought him on, and he had a Caulfield trial as well.
“Craig’s so good with young horses. He gives them a good experience, gives invaluable feedback to us and the owners.
“I would say that would be the shortest he wants to go. He came off the bridle early and was strong past the post and you would imagine 1100 (metres) or 1200 would suit him better.”
Buggsy’s campaign direction will follow assessment of his recovery when walking out Thursday.
“That was a nice introduction, and I see no reason why he would train off,” Kent Jnr said.
“He’s a vibrant colt that eats very well and is full of energy, but tomorrow may tell a different story.
“Whatever the case he’s going to keep improving.”
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