Closer than expected, but result as predicted

IT WAS a tighter finish than expected, but ultimately the result was as predicted in the second New South Wales Breeders’ Challenge semi for three-year-old colts and geldings at Club Menangle tonight.

Fresh from his demolition of the Victoria Derby in Melton a fortnight ago, Leap To Fame was considered a “good thing” to continue his winning ways in the qualifier.

Although the Grant Dixon-trained colt emerged triumphant, it took until the final stride for Leap To Fame to reach the front.

Caught wide from barrier nine, Leap To Fame was eased forward to test the leader, My Ultimate Ronnie, from the ‘death seat’.

With the pair matching strides along the home straight, Leap To Fame forged his way to the front in the shadows of the post to score by a half-head from My Ultimate Ronnie.

Muscle Bart was 14-and-a-half metres away third.

“I gave him as much time off as possible after the Derby so he was a bit fresh tonight,” Dixon said. “That said, he has done a power of work in quick time, so I am very pleased with his run.

“He’ll certainly be better for tonight and strip fitter again next week.”

Taking his record to 16 wins and five placings from 22 starts, the Australian Pacing Gold purchase covered the mile in 1:50.7, with his time a second quicker than Mahomes in the opening semi.

After travelling towards the tail of the field from barrier nine, Mahomes unleashed a scintillating sprint to win by a head from Teddy Disco, with Black Onyx three metres away third.

Also an APG purchase, the Peter Russo-trained gelding stretched his tally to eight wins and a second from 10 starts this season.