Trainer Kelly Schweida is not tempted to continue Stella Ombra’s campaign despite the gelding’s impressive win at Doomben.
Stella Ombra ($2.25) jumped straight to the lead on Saturday and made it four wins from his past five starts in the Chris Munce Racing Handicap (1050m).
He came home 1-1/4 lengths in front of dead-heaters Taillevent ($10) and Powerful Saga ($14).
Stella Ombra won an open handicap at Doomben last week but Schweida decided to back him up when he drew barrier one.
“The inside barriers from this start are like gold and you don’t want to waste them,” she said.
“The difference in his form now is that he is jumping cleanly. He was getting back in the field and running home. Now he is up on the pace and making them chase him.”
Schweida said Stella Ombra would definitely go for a spell and come back for the summer feature races.
“He has done a great job and has won in Sydney as well as having a trip to Rockhampton,” she said.
Earlier, trainer Robert Heathcote suggested the apprentices school be shown Ron Stewart’s winning ride on Ingeegoodbe in the Elite Portables Class 3 Plate (2040m).
“Ingeegoodbe was close to being sacked 12 months ago but he’s putting it all together now,” Heathcote said.
“That was a top ride from Ronnie and young jockeys should take note.”
