Heywood’s Skill Masters A Maiden Victory
4YO Masters claimed a well-deserved victory in an 1100m Maiden at Forbes at the beginning of August.
In a fast-run race, the Dream Ahead gelding was able to consolidate on the good improvement he had produced with the application of blinkers some four starts prior.
The horse’s two previous attempts had resulted in minor placings with closer finishes denied by wide passages or over-racing on slower tempos, however that was not to be the case at Forbes when the leading pair blazed along in front giving jockey Nick Heywood the opportunity to take a trailing role and allow the horse a breather.
Nick’s skills as a jockey are well-known on the country racing circuit and we were shown just why when the race entered the straight and he made the critical move of declining a half-appearing run up the fence, instead choosing to re-balance Masters and bring him out off the heels of the tiring leader and into the action. A pivotal decision that focused the horse into his race winning effort.
Nick plays an important role in the daily preparation of our horses at Goulburn with his visits to ride trackwork and we are thoroughly appreciative to be able to use his capable services on raceday whenever possible.
Congratulations go to all of Master’s ownership- and in particular Mr. M. Walker who had the honour of winning a race sponsored by his family- the Walker Family Showcase Country Boosted Maiden Plate.
Showcase and Country Boosted races provide substantial prize-money bonus for Maiden Class racing. These races are frequently pursued by DWR to maximise our horses’ earnings, making their successful targeting a cause for worthy celebration.
Owners: Mr T R Lobb, Mr M F Walker, Mr J L Diaz, Mr J P McGeechan, Mr C J McGeechan, Mr M M McGeechan, Mr CM Mackintosh, Mrs J L Mackintosh, Mr S M Cummins, Ms J Fife, Mrs K Stephenson, Mr W A Zouch, Mr S J Boothman, Mr P C Selmes, Mr P Judd, Mr G G Briscoe, Ms P J Nolan
Photo Credit: Bradley Photos