High-priced stallion Schwarz makes one-act affair of Group 2 Australia Stakes at The Valley on Friday night
Exciting four-year-old Schwarz threw down a stern Autumn marker with a slashing victory in the Group 2 Australia Stakes at The Valley on Friday night.
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A date with the Group 1 CF Orr Stakes has been put on the agenda for star Sydneysider Schwarz following his demolition job in the Group 2 Australia Stakes (1200m) at The Valley on Friday night.
The John O’Shea and Tom Charlton-trained four-year-old looked to be in cruise control for the entirety of the group 2 feature, leading from start to finish with plenty in hand with Blake Shinn aboard.
A $1.25m purchase, the Zoustar stallion extended his career record to five wins from 10 appearances, with the arrogance of the win suggesting he’s ready to take his form to the next level this time in.
“He’s always been a horse we’ve really liked, the ability and class has always been there, there’s times he’s got it wrong, but when he turns up like he did tonight he’s an awesome sight,” co-trainer Tom Charlton said.
“When he gets in a rhythm like he did tonight he’s very hard to beat and I dare say he’ll take improvement out of it as well.
“Going to the front is more the horse making his mind up rather than Blake, that’s what we see at the trials and at home with his work, he’s a very determined horse. You’re best to work with him.
“He’s had 10 starts now for four stakes wins including two at group 2 level so we’ll have to start looking for that group 1 now.
“There’s a few options but the Orr (Stakes) looks a nice option for him.”
Following Friday night’s Australia Stakes success, Schwarz firmed into a $7.50 third favourite for the CF Orr Stakes, slated for Caulfield on February 8.
Atop of betting is superstar Mr. Brightside which is expected to make his return to racing in the 1400m Group 1 showpiece.
Schwarz’s jockey Blake Shinn was full of praise for the horse in the race aftermath, suggesting that the rise to 1400 metres will pose little problem.
“He really took me where he wanted to be tonight and there was a lot of merit in the effort,” Shinn said.
“To do it from start to finish like he did first up and still have plenty in hand gives you the feeling that the additional trip won’t be a problem.”
Finishing second in the Australia Stakes was Steparty who sprinted well off a short break while Apache Song filled third.
Owned by Rosemont Stud, Schwarz’s Australia Stakes triumph was the second straight Friday night they have enjoyed feature race success, following Bosustow’s gripping Magic Millions 3YO Guineas win on the Gold Coast last week.
Originally published as High-priced stallion Schwarz makes one-act affair of Group 2 Australia Stakes at The Valley on Friday night
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