The best is yet to come from resurgent galloper Linton

TRAINER John Sadler says the best is yet to come for resurgent galloper Linton.

Linton

TRAINER John Sadler says the best is yet to come for resurgent galloper Linton.

Linton booked a start in the Stradbroke Handicap by winning the Group 3 R.A. Lee Stakes (1600m) at Morphettville on Saturday.

It was the grey's third win in three South Australian starts.

"We still feel he is three to four lengths off his best, but we are happy with the way he is going and he is a chance in the Stradbroke if the race is run to suit and there is speed up front," Sadler said.

Linton has had seven starts since joining the Malua Racing team, for three wins. He is $26 with TAB for the Stradbroke at Eagle Farm on June 8.

Sadler said unbeaten three-year-old Vain Queen would race on Saturday before being spelled.

"I doubt she will be a player in the spring. She is still immature and learning, I am looking forward to seeing her next autumn," he said.

Vain Queen has had two starts, including an impressive win at Flemington on Anzac Day.

It was not all good news for Malua Racing though, with classy mare Lady Melksham suffering a back injury and being sent to the paddock.

Sadler hoped to have her back for the spring carnival.

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ROSEMONT Stud's Anthony Mithen admits the stud has some interest in Patinack Farm's stock.

But while Rosemont will probably buy some of the 300-plus Patinack racing stock at a Gold Coast auction on May 27, Mithen said Rosemont was not big enough to buy Patinack "lock, stock and barrel".

It was revealed yesterday an Australian buyer was close to purchasing Nathan Tinkler's racing interests, which include a handful of stallions and three stud properties.

It is believed Irish-owned Coolmore Stud and Qatari-owned Pearl Bloodstock are among the most interested parties.

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RICHMOND star Chris Newman had a day to remember on Saturday.

Not only was Newman instrumental in the Tigers' win against Port Adelaide at AAMI Stadium, he owns a share of Wowee, winner of the Group 3 SA Fillies Classic (2500m) at Morphettville.

Hopefully Newman had time to duck into a TAB on the way to the match with Wowee paying $18.

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YESTERDAY'S three jumps races at Ballarat were a success with all completed without incident.

The sport's leading rider, Steven Pateman, won on Show Dancer in the 3200m steeplechase and Stoneblack in the 3200m restricted hurdle.

Richard Cully won the 3200m maiden hurdle aboard Jooli Lad, for trainer Ciaron Maher.