Recent New Zealand import Samurai has settled in well with trainers Anthony and Sam Freedman at their Pinecliff stable and is set to make his Australian race debut this Wednesday at Sandown.
The son of Saxon Warrior had one race start in New Zealand, where he finished a very close second to Whiskey Lies, a horse that subsequently won his next 2 starts including the 2yo Winter Championship. Since then, Samurai has moved to Australia and trialled at Mornington on August 16, where he finished second.
The Freedman’s were pleased with his performance in the jumpoout and have no hesitation in heading straight to the races with him.
“Michael Dee rode him in the jumpout and travelled wide around the field and finished off strong, which is a good indicator on this tight turning track. He’s sound, eating well and has acclimatised particularly well. He came through his trial in good order and we look forward to getting him to the races now. The 1300m Maiden looks to be the perfect kick-off for him.” said Anthony Freedman in an update to owners.
See the full field and all details for Wednesday’s race here.
From a timing perspective, the race on Wednesday sets him up perfectly for a spring preparation. Clearly his early work will guide Sam and Anthony on his race campaign, however there are a myriad of black-type options for him from 1400-2000m.
We look forward to his Australian debut at Sandown and are hopefully in for a successful future with him!