Last night’s winner Caracas could not have been more impressive, winning at just his second start for trainers Anthony and Sam Freedman and connections at Pakenham.
The 3yo son of Shocking was purchased by OTI after winning his only trial in New Zealand in November last year. With three trials and a promising debut race performance at Sale (finishing 2nd) under his belt, the Freedman’s were confident the gelding could go very close to winning in his second career start.
While he drew an outside gate, jockey Mark Zahra gave the 3yo time to find a spot and settle, before coming around the outside and proving too hard to beat.
“I let him balance up once he jumped and he was great. Once we had the space to go he was just too strong for them and it was a very good win. Talking about the SA Derby prior to the race, I think it’s certainly the right target for him.”, said Mark Zahra to owners after the race.
While exact plans are yet to be mapped, a path towards a Derby is certainly front of mind. The 3yo looks to have a bright future ahead of him.
Congratulations to all connections involved!
