The Bjorn Baker-trained Harpo Marx continued his rich vein of form this preparation with a fast-finishing victory over 2000 metres at Rosehill.
The Galileo five-year-old gelding has now had six starts this time in for three wins and two placings and the stable is planning for better races either in the Sydney autumn or in the spring.
Harpo Marx ($3.70 fav) produced a withering burst late to run down tearaway leader Vadiyann ($6) by a 1/2 neck with First Courier ($17) a further 1 3/4 lengths away third to win the Benchmark 78.
Jockey Sam Clipperton employed daring tactics aboard the runner-up Vadiyann, leading by upwards of seven lengths in the run and the French import fought on bravely to be beaten narrowly in a thrilling contest.
Stable representative Stephen McLean explained he had spoken with Baker after the race, who watched the race while at the Gold Coast and he wasn’t confident during the run.
“I just had a quick chat with Bjorn and he said he wouldn’t have taken 1000-1 at the 500m,” McLean said.
“But full credit to the horse, he dug deep and fought hard all the way to the line.
“It was a slight concern dropping back to the 2000m today, but he is rock hard fit.”
The Baker camp now has some planning to do as to where Harpo Marx will head next.
“The Australia Day Cup may come a bit too soon for him there at Warwick Farm, but I think we’ve definitely got to look at it as an option,” McLean said.
“Other than that, I don’t think there’s a great deal on offer.
“I’ll have a chat with Bjorn and we’ll just see how he pulls up on Monday. Maybe a winter assault up to Queensland or put him away for the spring.”
