The Anthony and Sam Freedman team has unveiled another exciting three-year-old, with Point Barrow unleashing a powerful closing burst to win the Red Roses Stakes (1200m) down the Flemington straight on Thursday.
The victory continues a strong week for the stable, coming hot on the heels of Tentyris’ win in the Coolmore Stud Stakes. Tentyris will be back at Flemington on Saturday to take on the older sprinters in the VRC Champions Sprint (1200m).
Daniel Stackhouse settled Point Barrow off the speed before the filly displayed a dazzling turn of foot to run down stablemate Inkaruna, scoring by 1¼ lengths, with Miss Freelove finishing a further length away in third.
A protest was fired in by Jye McNeil, rider of fourth-placed Akaysha, alleging interference from both the winner and runner-up, but stewards dismissed the objection.
Co-trainer Sam Freedman said Point Barrow has enormous natural talent but is still learning how to put it together.
“She has a really sharp acceleration but she’s still doing things wrong,” Freedman said.
“She wanted to overdo it early, which is one reason we chose this race instead of the Coolmore. Once she furnishes fully, she can be a very smart filly.”
The victory carried emotional significance, with Point Barrow racing in the colours of the McKenna family. Janice McKenna was present on course, just a year after the passing of her husband Colin, whose legacy continues to be felt throughout the industry.
The couple bred Half Yours, the horse who claimed Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup under Tony and Calvin McEvoy.
“It’s very special to have Janice here,” Freedman said.
“Col was loved by everyone. I think he’d be very proud today.”
Ciaron Maher and Calvin McEvoy were among those to pay tribute, acknowledging Colin’s influence on so many within racing.
Point Barrow is likely to head to the paddock now, but Freedman said decisions will be made based on how she recovers.
“She’s done everything we wanted this prep,” he said.
“Something like the Robert Sangster Stakes in the autumn would be a great option.”
If you’re having a bet this weekend, compare bookies using the Australian betting sites list.
