Experienced jockey Jeff Lloyd predicted a bright staying future for Congo after his impressive victory at Doomben on Saturday.
Congo was having his first start beyond 1200m but handled the 1600m journey with ease, prompting Lloyd to predict he will develop into a talented stayer.
“He’s still a big baby, with a lot to learn, but I liked the way he got to the line and he should make a nice staying horse,” he said.
“The way he finished off that race was a good sign for the future.”
Lloyd employed daring tactics aboard Congo in the Brothers Seven Gold Handicap (1600m) who circled the field from last in the middle stages because he was concerned by his headstrong racing manners.
His decision proved to be a masterstroke when Congo ($6) settled in a position outside the leader before sprinting clear in the straight to record a comfortable 2-1/4 lengths victory.
“He was over-racing and wasn’t doing himself any favours so I let him circle the field which helped him to relax and he got into a good rhythm,” Lloyd said.
Congo’s win was a fitting send-off for trainer Matt Dunn, who marries his fiancee Keira at Sanctuary Cove on Sunday, before embarking on a fortnight’s honeymoon to the United States.
“There aren’t many horses who can go from 1200 metres to a mile on a seven-day back-up but that shows how exceptional he is,” Dunn said.
“There’s still plenty of improvement in him but he’s got a good attitude around the stables and is a pleasure to train.”
