A well-bred Wootton Bassett colt on the improve, Botanist opened his account with a bold front-running win at Warwick Farm on Wednesday, bringing a timely update for his half-sister headed to Magic Millions in the Coolmore draft.
One of seven runners in the 1400m maiden from the Chris Waller stable, Botanist had race fitness on his side having his third start and was given a positive ride by Nash Rawiller.
He improved on a close second at Kembla last start when stepped up to 1400m and scored by three-quarters of a length.
“It’s obviously a good win and whenever you get sent high-priced horse, there’s obviously that added pressure and now he’s done the job,” said stable representative Charlie Duckworth.
“It was a beautiful ride by Nash. He let everyone behind him worry about their positions, while he got on with the task ahead.”
Botanist was a $900,000 Inglis Easter purchase from Coolmore for Resolute Racing and runs in John Stewart’s colours for a partnership that includes the Coolmore partners.
He is the first winner for brilliant Group 3 winning Pierro mare Tulip, who was placed in the Group 1 ATC Golden Slipper, and is a full sister to stakes-winner Les Vampires and half-sister to Group 3 winner Sacred Eye from Group 3 winner Musidora.
