3 minute read
Sometimes all it takes is a bit of time away to unlock a horse’s true potential – and Cadet was another living proof of that belief on Friday night.
The son of Captain Sonador had two runs as a two-year-old in the Singapore Golden Horseshoe series without really flattering (seventh and fourth). Trainer Patrick Shaw straightaway turned the Thai-owned gelding out only to bring him back again around two months ago.
The physical changes did look striking enough, but the real litmus test would still be in a race.
From the way he took the $75,000 Restricted Maiden race over 1000m by the scruff of the neck from the start, there was no doubt that Cadet was a much improved proposition compared to his first prep.
Bustled up to take the lead by Nooresh Juglall, Cadet ($19) went on to dictate terms under his own steam, never looking in danger of getting beaten when his rider cut the ribbons shortly after straightening.
Favourite Kratos (Corey Brown) and Premier Fighter (Glen Boss), who were next in his slipstream, did try to overpower him but they soon realised they were wasting their time as Cadet easily held them at bay to romp home by just under three lengths.
Kratos, who went ballistic at his last race when he dramatically veered right off the track in the home straight, was a lot more tractable this time, but his finish lacked punch. The Guillotine grey stayed one-paced and even lost the runner-up spot to debutant Dayflirt (Danny Beasley) by 1 ¼ lengths. The winning time was 59.09 seconds for the 1000m on the Polytrack.
“It’s amazing how he’s come back a stronger horse after his break. Physically, his trackwork and that barrier trial (won on October 25) have brought him on,” said assistant-trainer Ricardo Le Grange.
“The penny has really dropped for him now, and here, I have to thank the owner for being so patient with this horse.”
Juglall, who has struck a fruitful association with the connections, the Kajorn Petch Racing Stable, did not fail to show his gratitude either.
“A big thank you to the Thai owners who have supported me from Day 1,” said the Mauritian jockey, in reference mainly to his partnership with Infantry, who is, however, prepared by Alwin Tan.
“They have another nice horse in this one. He worked well in trackwork, even if he has a bit of a character.
“He’s still a big baby who is learning what racing is all about, but tonight, he showed us his true ability.
“Well done to Pat and Rick for the great work at the yard, and not forgetting Jacci (de Tert) who works hard behind the scenes at the stables.
“Thank you to Barend Vorster as well for giving me a good guide how to ride this horse.He told me he’s a horse who can overrace and be a little above himself and that I should just calm him down on the way to the gates.
“From the moment he jumped and pricked his ears, I knew he would be hard to beat.”
