Success with European imports has been the backbone of Chris Waller’s stable and unlocking the potential of former US-trained gallopers is shaping as the next frontier.
Waller built much of his early momentum with stayers sourced from Europe but with that market now well and truly exposed, the influx of stakes-class thoroughbreds from America has begun to slowly increase.
The likes of Yulong-owned mares Moira, Full Count Felicia and River Of Stars all started their respective careers in the US before joining Waller’s team earlier this year and while they have yet to taste success locally, the latter has been Group 1 placed in the Sydney Cup.
Tulloch Lodge has won majors with former American mare Con Te Partiro (2020 Coolmore Classic and Queen Of The Turf Stakes) and the well-travelled Royal Patronage (2025 Canterbury Stakes) who came from Europe to Australia via the US.
Waller’s assistant trainer Charlie Duckworth is hoping their yard’s latest US acquisition, Pounce, can likewise make her presence felt.
“They’ve done a pretty good job, the American (horses) in recent years,” Duckworth said.
“Yulong has given us a good few mares, the likes of Moira and Full Count Felicia so we have had a sample but it’s always interesting to see where form marries up.
“She (Pounce) certainly looks like she is going to make the grade anyway.”
A two-time Group winner over a mile in America, Pounce will launch her Australian chapter in The Nivison (1200m) at Rosehill on Saturday with Adam Hyeronimus booked for the ride.
Duckworth expects her to improve as she steps up in journey but says the five-year-old has adapted to her new environment well and has the class to feature from a low draw in gate four.
“Once she gets up over a suitable distance she will be a genuine contender over here,” he said.
“She hasn’t missed a beat since arriving. It’s just whether the distance is going to be too short.”
Pounce is owned by Resolute Racing, headed by American businessman John Stewart who was the underbidder on Winx’s first foal.
Duckworth said the mare’s performance at Rosehill would give them a clearer picture of what races to target but added they were keen to add to her stakes record.
“She is a multiple Group Three winner so it will be about trying to get more black type on her page,” he said.
Pounce was a $15 chance on Thursday with Gangsta Granny a $2.80 favourite.
