Midweek racing during the winter carnival usually produces some rising stars and it was no different at Ipswich.
Sir Donald ($2.50) and Lauderdale ($3) won the divisions of the two-year-old maiden and both indicated they could win in much better company.
Trained by Michael Nolan in Toowoomba, Sir Donald had only had an unofficial trial on his home track but the gelding was heavily backed.
“We have always had a wrap on him but he had won only an unofficial jump out. He has shown us a bit but he has been in an out a few times with shin soreness and a shoulder problem,” Nolan said.
“I think he can win a better race but we will have to see what else is around.”
Sir Donald, who is by top two-year-old sire I’m Invincible, ran 58.65secs, getting home his last 600m in a slick 33.43secs.
The Matt Dunn-trained Lauderdale ran a slower time of 59.53secs but was just as impressive.
While Sir Donald led, Lauderdale raced four and five deep for the entire trip and came from back in the field.
“The barrier was always going to be a problem but it was a good effort. He is still learning to get his action together,” Dunn said.
“But I think he can win a better race and he certainly is going to be better at more than 1000 metres.”
Tough mare Dame Destiny confirmed her liking for Ipswich with her fifth win on the track at her first run since January.
“She has come back very well and she travelled well once she could get in behind the pace. Since we have figured her out she has really shown a liking for Ipswich,” trainer Ben Ahrens said.
