The unblemished start to BEAST MODE’s career continued at Eagle Farm as the 3YO scored his first metropolitan win.
BEAST MODE went into Wednesday’s Benchmark 68 Handicap (1000m) off the back of successive wins at his home track, and promptly ran up a hat-trick of victories under his regular rider Martin Harley.
The son of Better Than Ready had dictated from the front in his first two wins, but his versatility was on display at start number three as he stalked the speed before pouncing at the 200m mark.
His ability to adapt pleased his trainer as much as the win, which took his career prizemoney earnings to $68,700.
“That was terrific, I enjoyed seeing him settling in second place because he’d led all the way in his first two starts, but he proved he doesn’t have to do that so it adds another string to his bow,” said David.
“He’s amazing, he’s great to have around the stable and he can clearly gallop. When the other horse came at him late, he really pinned the ears back and he was up for the fight.
“I think he’ll get over further in time, he’s definitely got the demeanour to. I’ll give him an easy couple of weeks and there’s a race for three-year-olds on the QTIS Jewel Raceday which is worth a half a million dollars, so we might have a look at that next.”
Harley was equally taken with the manner of the performance, saying: “This horse has come on with every run.
“He showed today that he doesn’t have to lead, he’s very versatile. The leader went along at a good gallop but I was always confident we had him covered. When he felt the pressure arriving he responded very well.
“He’s still learning about the game and I’m still learning about him, he’s still a baby so there’s definite improvement to come. But he couldn’t have made a better start to his career.”
Many congratulations to the team at Best Bloodstock and their co-owners: Broady Cats, M C Horse Racing, Mr G A Horan, Mr P S Farrugia, Mr L W Chapman, Mr J K Donnelly, Mr L Brayshaw, Mr M S Newman, Mr J Fleming and Mr R Loebert.