Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr’s yard saw hints of Buggsy’s promise before his purchase from the Ready To Run sale the previous year.
The Harry Angel colt justified the faith by capturing his maiden victory in the Sportsbet Jockey Watch Handicap (1000m) at Sandown last Wednesday.
Sandown Hillside Race 1 | Buggsy
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Sold for $300,000 at Inglis Ready To Run in October, the colt enjoyed an immediate freshen-up.
Kent Jnr mentioned the rest served the two-year-old well, particularly after dominating a Caulfield Heath trial recently, preparing him for debut.
Under Craig Williams at $2.20 odds-on, Buggsy triumphed by 1-¼ lengths ahead of Money Honey ($11) and Macedon Mission ($71) a neck further back.
“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 racing, but Kent Jnr was impressed by his composure 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.”
Plans for the preparation will follow observation of the colt’s recovery on 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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