They haven’t gone that quick over the 2000m at Rosehill since 1996 but the Annabel Neasham-trained Naval College ($3F) has flown around the Sydney circuit.
The European import has registered a time of 1.59:19 breaking the previous track record of 1.59:99 held by both Octagonal (1996) and Danewin (1995). Not bad company to be a part of.
Jumping perfectly from gate four, apprentice rider Jett Stanley was able to slot in behind the two early leaders and put his mount to sleep during the middle stages.
When asked the question at the 300m mark, the five-year-old put them to the sword to win by an ever-widening three and three quarter lengths over Riyazan ($16). Lord Ardmore ($26) was seen hitting the line late for third.
Stanley is building up an imposing record on the son of Dartmouth, with today’s win being his fourth victory from just five steers.
“I get along with him so well, he’s been such a good horse to me,” Stanley beamed.
“To come here to Rosehill and win my first stakes race, I can’t thank the team enough.
“I knew Andrew (Adkins on Riyazan) was one of the horses to beat. I was able to follow him into the race.
“When I got to the outside of him I knew they weren’t going to be coming home after me by the way we put the pace on a long way out.
“He stayed until the line.”
Stable representative Aaron Lau was full of praise for both horse and rider.
“He settled brilliant for Jett and it was fairly comfortable watching,” Lau said.
“He relaxed beautifully in the run, with a lightweight today and third-up. He was ready to go so we’re really happy with that.
“You would like to think he will get 2400m now. It’s a logical step up in trip and you would think he will get 2400m no problems with the way he relaxes.”
