3 minute read

A trans-Tasman racing partnership has made a perfect start with the debut victory of the regally-bred filly Love Triangle.

As a daughter of Encosta de Lago from the legendary Eight Carat family and with winning trial form, the three-year-old promised much and she duly delivered in Saturday’s NZ Bloodstock Airfreight Maiden.

Love Triangle was purchased for $400,000 at Karaka in 2014 by Te Akau principal David Ellis and she carries the colours of thoroughbred powerhouse Coolmore Stud.

“It’s the first time they have raced a horse outright in New Zealand,” Ellis said. “John Magnier asked me about 18 months ago to buy them a filly and I chose Love Triangle.

“The boys are going to have a lot of fun with her and as long as she comes through this race well she will probably run in the Gold Trail Stakes at Hawke’s Bay.”

Love Triangle’s long-term aim is the Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas at Riccarton in November.

“That’s been the goal since the day I bought her,” Ellis said.

The Stephen Autridge and Jamie Richards-trained Love Triangle sat in second spot to the turn and led over the closing 300 metres for a comfortable victory under Matt Cameron.

“Matt thought there was a lot of improvement to come and he is really keen on her,” Ellis said.

Stablemate Scrutinize also raced right up to his pedigree when the son of Savabeel and the multiple Group One winner Legs remained unbeaten after claiming the Harcourts Just Rentals 3YO.

“For a horse I bought to win a Derby to win over 1200 metres was a big bonus,” Ellis said. “He will go to the Hawke’s Bay Guineas, the Canterbury Stakes and then the 2000 Guineas.”