A surprise Listed win by Agister in the Eskimo Prince Stakes at Warwick Farm brought up a milestone for Sydney’s leading apprentice Josh Adams.
Not only was it the 19-year-old’s first black-type victory, it was also his 50th metropolitan winner with his claim reduced to 1-1/2 kilos after the end of Saturday’s meeting.
Agister’s last-start two-length sixth to Halekulani at Rosehill turned punters off and the Allan Denham-trained colt was sent out at $41.
Adams said he was not shocked Agister ran well but admitted the win was unexpected.
“I knew he had been working well,” Adams said.
“But I have had much better hopes in big races before.
“It’s a thrill to get my first stakeswinner and it also means my claim goes down.
“Allan Denham told me he knocked up last start and said I should ride him the same and it worked out.”
Agister races in the purple and white colours of Geoff and Beryl White which posed a problem for Adams who discovered he did not have a white cap.
The one he borrowed was emblazoned with the name Bowman and Adams said it may not be returned to multiple Group One-winning rider Hugh Bowman.
“I didn’t have a white cap and I think I’m keeping it now,” he said.
AAP TURF
