Impressed by his fighting win, trainer Dan Morton will have Featherweight back in action for Saturday’s Group 3 WA Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) at Ascot.
The Snippetson gelding is on the quick turnaround for the final feature race of the juvenile season after displaying courage to end his maiden status last weekend.
Ridden out strongly by Chris Parnham, Featherweight dug in for the fight and kicked back strongly after he was headed on the inside by Ain’t No Other Man.
The winning margin tight and although he looked vulnerable in the home stretch, Featherweight delivered a knockout blow to defeat Ain’t No Other Man by a nose.
Featherweight’s first win at his fourth start gave Dan Morton some minor consolation after the $45,000 yearling was second emergency in last Saturday week’s Karrakatta Plate (1200m).
Morton said he was keen to see Featherweight add black type to his record in the Sires on Saturday.
“I thought his run last Saturday was really good,” Morton said.
“He looked beaten a couple of times, but he kept finding and fighting.
“That was his first run in three weeks and he was a bit above himself.
“He stuck to his guns really well and will strip fitter.
“I was disappointed he couldn’t gain a start in the Karrakatta because I have a good opinion of him.”
Chris Parnham continues his association with Featherweight in the Sires.
Meanwhile Morton will unveil another of his babies when Buzzoom steps out for her first appearance at Ascot on Wednesday.
After three trials the daughter of Safeguard will contest the Crown Perth Maiden (1200m) from barrier 12. Brad Parnham will take the ride.
“Awkward gate, but whatever she does she will be improving on,” Morton said.
War Warrior got to within a length of Starlift when runner-up on debut at Bunbury last month.
The three-year-old colt will look to breakthrough in the Carbine Club Of WA Maiden (1200m).
“He’s green and raw, but he’ll benefit from the experience,” Morton said.
“He’s been working well.”
Morton also believes Empire Reign could be looking for further when he races first up in the Heineken 3 Handicap (1000m).
Newcomer Aragain debuts for Morton in the Vale Bob King Handicap (1400m).
Morton says he likes what he sees from the mare, but she is likely to be effective over more ground.”
