Brisbane racing trainer Chris Anderson excited for future after debut win

Brisbane-based racing trainer Chris Anderson is keen to continue his solid run of form after an impressive showing at the Magic Millions and two leading chances at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Trainer, Chris Anderson at Eagle Farm. Picture: Steve Pohlner

Brisbane-based racing trainer Chris Anderson is keen to continue his solid run of form after an impressive showing at the Magic Millions and two leading chances at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Anderson took out the $500,000 Debut 2YO Colts and Geldings race with Lead Me On last Saturday while also claiming The Home of 2YO Speed the weekend prior with Deniliquin.

“It was a great thrill, winning any race is always great but winning on those big days is ultimately why we do it all,” he said.

The 49-year-old has had a steady run of results since beginning his training career in his mid 30s and hoped Lead Me On’s recent victory was just the beginning.

“We’re certainly not getting carried away with the horse, he’s only had one start but he did have to come from the widest gate, he used a hell of a lot of fuel early so was entitled to be a bit tired late because he effectively did it at both ends,” he said.

Great win by Lead Me On on debut 👌 pic.twitter.com/9ad5RqjGM3

— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) January 13, 2024

What a great interview 🙌

- Chris Anderson and his son after Lead Me On's win. pic.twitter.com/jERKwHZ2yr

— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) January 13, 2024

“I think there’s certainly further upside there, he’s still very green and is still learning his craft as they all are when they’re debuting.

“We’re just going to assess him this week, there’s an option for him to just have a go back at Saturday metropolitan grade but the Winter Carnival is also on our doorstep so if he measures up that might be a consideration.”

After only acquiring Deniliquin from John Thompson’s stable in December, Anderson was interested to see how he and his other runner Smart Recognition could perform on Saturday.

“Deniliquin was a nice acquisition, it’s no secret that the racing up here in Queensland is easier than what it is in Sydney so I think he’s found a nice home up here,” he said.

Smart Recognition for Chris Anderson. Picture: Facebook.

“He’s a lovely horse so I think there could be a bit of fun to be had with him and I know he’s won quite a few races already but some benchmark and off season racing will be perfect for him which is where we land on Saturday over 2400m.”

“For Smart Recognition he was really good when winning at Ipswich on Saturday, he got some nice sectionals and controlled things upfront which helped late.

“He’s only three and is still putting it all together but now that we’ve seen the summer carnival come to an end there’s some good opportunities for him in Saturday and Metropolitan grade.”

Originally published as Brisbane racing trainer Chris Anderson excited for future after debut win