Round one goes to Sydney sidekick!

TO MY dismay the grip on my throne has been loosened while bragging rights have been thrust into Michael Court’s possession.

After claiming the title as top yearling selector during last season’s Australian Pacing Gold I was challenged by my Sydney-based colleague ahead of this year’s round.

Naturally I accepted as how hard can it be?…he’s from Sydney!

Following intense studying of the offerings, Court picked Lot 25 in last Sunday’s APG Sale in Brisbane.

By Bettors Delight, the filly is from former handy mare Wandary Splash.

I went with Lot 1 – a filly by Betting Line from October Original, however, it was a late withdrawal.

As such my back-up selection was Lot 2.

With the super-looking colt by Art Major fetching $57,000 I figured I had the victory ‘in the bag’ until Court’s choice was sold for a sale-equalling $60,000.

“We both did a pretty good job with our selections, but the fact remains I have the better eye,” Court said.

Out to seek redemption, I’ve chosen Lot 211 in Sunday’s APG Melbourne Sale.

A son of Rock N Roll Heaven, the colt is from Illustrator.

Although she was a moderate performer on the track, Illustrator has surpassed her racing deeds in the breeding barn with a perfect record from six starters.

Court has selected Lot 202 which is a “sturdy-looking beautifully-bred filly by Vincent out of Courage Under Fire mare Golden Valour”.

“To be honest I found five youngsters I’d love to be taking home but in the end my heart won through and I chose Lot 202,” Court said.

“She was one of just three Vincent youngsters at the Melbourne sale and I have been waiting to see some of Vincent’s progeny and all three looked pretty impressive.

“Still this youngster caught my eye, not unlike the mighty Vincent, who was one of the most impressive-looking pacers I’ve ever seen in action…and one that I feel we never got to see the best of.”