Forgotten nine-year-old breaks maiden

AT AN age when most are winding down their careers, Skye Cruiser is only starting his.

Foaled a decade ago, the son of Julius Caesar was “simply forgotten” after being placed in a paddock.

Fast forward to 2021 and owner Allan Chambers decided it was time Skye Cruiser began racing.

After a pair of outings with astute horseman David Murphy, Skye Cruiser was transferred to in-form couple Beau and Ann-Jeanette Tindale.

Having his second start for the Tindales at Tabcorp Park Melton last night, the nine-year-old broke his maiden status over 1720 metres.

Driven by Greg Sugars, Skye Cruiser was brilliantly weaved through the field from his second row draw to find the lead soon after the start.

Allowed to roll along at an even tempo, the gelding completed a soft seven-metre win from Gozo Courage.

Officially Shady was three metres away third in 1:58.4.

“He actually goes along alright,” Beau said. “David had him for a little bit and we were fortunate to him get after couple starts.

“I think the bloke put him in a paddock and he was simply forgotten to be honest.

“He does feel his age some mornings, but the biggest thing is his aerobic fitness as he is so old and did nothing for so long he was extremely unfit.

“He has got a bit of toe about him and should win a few more off that race.”