“Crazy amount” paid for half share in star pacer

GIVEN his effortless performance in Shepparton just moments ago, it is easy to understand why a reported record amount has been paid for a half share in Ride High.

While the figure remains undisclosed, it took “a crazy amount” and persistence for the deal to be struck.

Alabar Bloodstock has secured half ownership in Ride High with the view of standing the freakish pacer as a sire upon his retirement.

One of the agreement’s terms is Ride High will race for at least two more seasons providing.

Given the manner in which the Clayton Tonkin-trained stallion has thrilled all in recent weeks, having him continue to grace racetrack is a bonus for enthusiasts.

Fresh from his 1:49 success in Bendigo a fortnight ago, Ride High extended his winning streak with a soft victory in Shepparton tonight.

Beginning quickly to find the lead from barrier six, the five-year-old was never fully extended on his way to a eight-and-a-half metre win from Sirletic, with Repeat After Me 16-and-a-half metres away third.

Providing Kima Frenning with an armchair drive, the ‘Delacombe Destroyer’ rated 1:54.1 over 1690 metres to register his 10^th consecutive win.

Bred and owned by Peter Gleeson, Ride High took his record to 15 wins and a third from 16 starts for earnings of $270,827.

“I’ve been trying for two years to get that deal done so I am pretty happy to have it all but finalised,” Alabar Bloodstock’s Principal Alan Galloway said.

“We will get his semen checked on Monday which will finalise the deal.

“I bought half of him for crazy money but he’s worth it as his potential as a stallion is massive.

“He is the best horse I have ever seen.”

From grand producing mare All The Magic, Ride High is by Alabar’s multiple premiership winning super sire Art Major.

All The Magic boasts a perfect record from four starters, with her progeny including Group One winner Rocknroll Magic.

The family traces back to amazing foundation mare Larrakeyah Lady.