The stable was elated to see our talented 4-year-old, Bandi’s Boy claim the stunning victory he had long promised in the 1200m Group 3 Star Kingdom Stakes at Rosehill at the end of March.
Despite being initially underestimated in the market, the gelding delivered with a late surge to the many who believed in him, including backers who moved his odds from $34.00 to $15.00 shortly before the race commenced.
Watch the concluding stages HERE
The son of Kooringal Stud’s stallion The Brother’s War was suited by the strong tempo of the event and raced perfectly under the guidance of Jay Ford- the jockey who has been instrumental in the careful and patient development of the horse over many race starts.
Danny commended Jay for his expert handling of the gelding, noting how far the horse’s maturity had progressed through the season after many challenges including a frustrating lack of racing sense and a period of injury.
This achievement holds deep meaning for the DWR team.
Not only is it fantastic to realise a Group level win with a horse who has taken particular care over his short career, but especially as we remember his late owner/breeder and our close friend, John Woods, whose belief in Bandi’s Boy never wavered.
His legacy lives on through the horse and this victory is a fitting tribute to his love of racing and his unwavering support of our stable. .
The win marksed a significant milestone in our journey towards the upcoming Country Championships Final- a race we have been chasing since its inception in 2014.
As we look ahead to the $1M event, we are filled with excitement and optimism.
Bandi’s Boy has proven himself to be a more than able racehorse and we have full confidence in his ability to produce on the grand stage once again.
Congratulations to the entire team and the Woods family on the achievement.
We are so proud of what we’ve accomplished together and look forward to more success in the future.
Owners:
EST J R Woods, Mrs M Coffey, Mr J Coffey, Mr C Coffey
Photo credit: Bradley Photos
Further Updates.
Despite being sent around short-priced favourite in the Final 7 days later, Bandi’s Boy’s Country Championship hopes for 2024 were not to be.
He experienced a trying week where he came through his run in the Star Kingdom foot-sore and was at one time in doubt to make it to his target race, and then clearly below his best in the race.
Despite this setback his talent remains and the still lightly raced 4YO will make a return to racing after a well earned spell.