Exciting NZ galloper sold to Hong Kong

To Bravery Born will continue his racing journey in Hong Kong after being sold following his recent New Zealand campaign.

Bred by Nearco Stud, the son of Snitzel was secured by Te Akau Racing principal David Ellis for $200,000 from Curraghmore’s draft at the 2024 New Zealand Bloodstock Book 1 Yearling Sale.

Prepared by Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, the gelding showed early promise, winning two of his five starts as a two-year-old and finishing placed in the Group 3 Matamata Slipper (1200m).

He returned as a three-year-old with a victory before adding another win in December. That was followed by three unplaced efforts, including his most recent run when finishing seventh in the $4 million NZB Kiwi (1500m) at Ellerslie on Champions Day.

“He has been a really good horse for the stable,” Bergerson said. “He was at all the big dances as a two-year-old and he did a fantastic job this season as well.

“He was there at Taupo at the start of the season and we freshened him up after the Wanganui Guineas (Listed, 1200m) and he went to some pretty good races along the way. He always gave a really good account of himself.

“It was a pity that he let himself down at the start, but he used to rattle off some really good sectionals late.

“It is sad to see him go, he is a very talented horse, but I am confident he can do well over there for his new trainer and ownership group, and I am looking forward to following his career.”

To Bravery Born won four of his 11 starts in New Zealand and earned just under $300,000 in prizemoney.

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