Impressive with a strong run to the line at his only race start, Samurai has since been jointly purchased by OTI Racing and Anthony & Sam Freedman and will arrive to the Freeman’s Pinecliff stable this week.
The 3yo gelding by Saxon Warrior started midfield in his race debut on June 10 and travelled well before finishing strongly, unlucky not to win in a bobbing finish. He ran the fastest closing sectionals of his race, with one of his 200m splits listed as the quickest of the day.
The form surrounding his only race start has been fully franked. The winner, Whiskey Lies, won his next 2 starts, including the 2yo Winter Championship. The 3rd horse in the race finished 2nd in the Winter Championship, while Itza Charmdeel (3 lengths back in 5th) has since won at Listed level.
The 3yo will continue his preparation and, pending an assessment of his fitness, could have a jumpout in as little as two weeks time. He will be aimed towards some quality 3yo events during the spring.
Samurai was recommended by NZ agent Phill Cataldo, whose history with OTI is well known having previously identified I’m Thunderstruck, Aloisia and Hezashocka and many others as young horses. Hopefully Samurai can follow their esteemed footsteps.