The arrival of The Citadel
THE THREE-YEAR-OLDS
As the race track appearance of the three-year-olds continues to increase, the arrival of the Ian Parsard trained The Citadel, winning on debut over 6 ½ furlongs is of significance.
The Citadel, a three-year-old chestnut colt by Key To Power – Wings of Hope, main protagonists were Silent Silhoutte, with three starts, and El Cid, who showed some promise on his debut.
Coming from off the pace The Citadel with Dane Dawkins in the saddle came from way behind to be with the leaders turning for home. Even after going five-wide, The Citadel was resolute in his gallop winning by 2 ½ lengths. The final time was a slow 1:23.1, but it has to be mentioned that during the course of the last two race days, the track has been slow.
This was a noticeable first run by The Citadel, who should not be watched closely. So too Stomp The Rhythm, a bay colt by Savoy Stomp out of River Rhythm, trained by Vincent Atkinson. Stomp The Rhythm was even further behind the leaders than The Citadel and was seen running on strongly in the straight to finish third – four lengths behind The Citadel. It must be noted that Stomp The Rhythm during the course of his stretch surge was interfered with but was still able to finish well.
Another three-year-old, the foreigner Runaway Algo returned for his third outing and did enough to record his second victory. The event won by Runaway Algo (Shane Ellis), trained by Dale Murphy was contested over six furlongs with, Runaway Algo shortening in the final half a furlong, thereby giving the impression that his best efforts in the higher grades will be at the sprint distances.
THE OTHER HORSES
The disciplined effort of Excessive Force must have brought great satisfaction to his connections. This five-year-old has developed the bad habit of going wide on the turns, which has served to curtail his progress.
On Saturday, trainer of Excessive Force, Philip Feanny removed the visor and with Linton Steadman in the saddle, a rejuvenated Excessive Force plundered rivals in the Overnight call, without muss fuss.
THE JOCKEYS
It was quite pleasant to see, Paul Francis riding two winners on the day. Francis has been around for a while and is one who is still working hard at this trade. Congrats to “Country”.
