Imported Godolphin sprinter Home Of The Brave is bound for bigger races after a dominant win in the Group Two Theo Marks Stakes at Rosehill.
His win over D’Argento and Trapeze Artist on Saturday prompted discussion about The Everest but stable representative Darren Beadman diverted attention from the $13 million race, saying trainer James Cummings had many options.
“James has mentioned the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes as an option,” Beadman said.
“He is a horse that runs with purpose so a race like that (Everest) would be suitable and there are options for him.”
Glyn Schofield sent Home Of The Brave ($5.50) straight to the front and he got stronger as the race went on.
Favourite D’Argento ($2.90) loomed up but the leader kicked and had two lengths to spare on the line.
“For the majority of the race I just tried to keep him happy without trying to fight him too much, but without letting him run too hard,” Schofield said.”
“Conditions are trying and testing, he got through them really well and congratulations to James and the team.
“He’s got a lot of spunk about him. His foot is always on the accelerator, he wants to go but he’s got ability to go with it which is great.”
Trapeze Artist ($5.50) lost his position as favourite for The Everest with 2017 winner Redzel now at the top of the market but trainer Gerald Ryan was far from discouraged.
“First-up on a heavy track, I was happy with him,” he said.
“He had to carry 62 kilos and from now on he meets the others at level weights.
“He had a blow after the race and he was entitled to.”
Trapeze Artist’s jockey Tye Angland said the track played against him.
“I was happy with the way he relaxed underneath me. He came into it feeling great but when I asked him to quicken the wheels spun a little bit. This heavy track is not his go.”
Home Of The Brave’s win came at his second Australian start and followed his second to Voodoo Lad in the Aurie’s Star Handicap at Flemington last month.
