The most remarkable story this weekend is the winning sequence sustained by Winx. Since May 2015 she has been perfect with 26 Stakes wins in succession, including 19 Group 1’s.
I found this quote in Wikipedia most revealing. “Unlike many elite racehorses, Winx does not have a particularly long stride – her stride was measured at 6.76 metres (22.2 ft) compared to nearly 8.5 metres (28 ft) for Black Caviar and Phar Lap. Instead, her success has been attributed to a “freakish” stride rate that allows her to take 14 strides every 5 seconds, compared to 12 for her rivals. “This means she can settle or accelerate at any time during a race,” said Dr. Graeme Putt, who has studied the science of racehorse success. “I think this makes her unique.”
Nothing too sensational unfolded on the domestic scene. Emily Jay (speed score 97) held of Shukamisa’s (s/s 95) stretch run to win the headliner at Turffontein in a game showing. This was the Jay Peg mare’s seventh win during a 22 -start career to date.
Jamra (s/s 94) maintained her good form to win again. The Trippi filly has done nicely since wearing blinkers and continues to progress.
Clouded Hill (s/s 83 ++), is an impressive youngster. He won the opener at Kenilworth with contemptuous ease and is worth following based on his ability to move smoothly through the gears.
Hudoo Magic (s/s 92) was another to catch the eye. He stretched out to a mile after a good sprint debut, and enjoyed running at them after a fast pace was set by One Life Live It. Second placed Crome Yellow (s/s 90) returned from 242 days off track to put forth a bold showing and should soon be getting out the Maidens.
Monte Christo (s/s 94) recorded his fourth win in a career interrupted by lay- offs. He’s regularly runs scores of 96 – 97 and can win a few more off his merit rating under the expert care of Peter Muscutt. Muscutt has an intriguing link with Winx, having worked with the mare in Oz when attached to Chris Waller’s stable. He specially designed an impact absorbent saddle pad which helped her feel comfortable when galloping. Such is the attention to detail required in the ultra- competitive, modern training game.