Saltcoats rewarded the patience of his connections with an impressive win in the Premier’s Cup Prelude, securing his fourth career victory after the race was postponed from Saturday’s washed-out Randwick program. The 1800m contest was the only event from the original 10-race card to be transferred to Wednesday’s Kensington meeting.
Representing trainer Chris Waller, Darren Beadman stressed the importance of running the Prelude to maintain the fitness of staying-type horses ahead of key spring assignments.
“It was really important these types of horses were able to get the mileage in their legs, given they’re going to get over a bit of ground,” Beadman said.
“You could run them in a barrier trial over 1200 but they’re not going to get the same benefit.”
Starting as the $2.60 favourite, Saltcoats arrived at the race third-up following an encouraging third to Robusto in the Winter Challenge (1500m) on July 19. He relished the step up in trip, surging along the rail in the straight to defeat Glory Daze ($2.90) by 2-1/4 lengths, with Salt Lake City ($7.50) finishing third.
Beadman confirmed the Group 3 Premier’s Cup (2000m) at Randwick next Saturday was the likely progression for the gelding.
“That looks the logical step for him and right progression,” he said.
The day also delivered a special moment for 22-year-old apprentice Siena Grima, who landed her first metropolitan win aboard Tazima for Waller in the Exceedance @ Vinery Stud Handicap (1800m). Making the five-hour trip from Tamworth for her sole ride after More Felons was scratched from the Premier’s Cup Prelude, Grima was thrilled with the breakthrough.
“I’m more than happy to do it to get my name out and around in the metro area and for the bigger trainers to see me and see what I can hopefully accomplish on their horses too,” she said.
Waller’s team enjoyed a strong afternoon, collecting four wins courtesy of Tazima, Saltcoats, three-year-old Sixties, and Narbold.
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