Racing’s uncanny ability to bring a little light into the darkest moments was once again in evidence with the win of the Ardsley Stud bred and part owned War Machine (Harry Angel – Caserta by Hussonet) in Queensland’s greatest race, the 1400m Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
Ardsley principal Jim Wallace and his wife Mary lost their much-loved son Michael last weekend. Michael, an internationally recognised Bloodstock agent, sourced Caserta, the dam of War Machine, for his father and brother David, who still share in the ownership of the 4-year-old gelding, after selling the horse to Australia off the back off a trial win at Foxton in May 2023.
In another twist to the Stradbroke result, War Machine had been trained by Mike Moroney until his sudden passing 2 months ago; before transferring to the leading stable of Ben, JD and Will Hayes.
Caserta, also the dam of the promising Sydney trained Per Incanto filly Fleeting Spirit, is currently in foal to Per Incanto.
War Machine’s Group 1 victory is the 6th Australian Group 1 success for a Wairarapa bred since February 2022, a phenomenal achievement for such a small breeding catchment. The LA bred Roch 'n' Horse and Jimmysstar (bred in partnership with Greytown’s Chrissy and Pete Algie) won four Group 1’s between them, while Ardsley bred the 2023 Australian Oaks winner Pennyweka.
In other weekend racing results, Per Incanto's promising sprinter Twain (Per Incanto – Fleur De Lune by Stravinsky) improved his record to six wins and two minor placings from just nine starts when successful in the 1200m Open handicap at Te Rapa. Trainer John Bell is targeting the Group 2 Lisa Chittick Foxbridge Plate in August for the 4-year-old gelding.
Further south at Wanganui, Time Test’s exciting 3-year-old son Ma Te Wa, sold on behalf of Dr John O'Brien, by Little Avondale at the 2023 Karaka Book 2 sale for $25,000), remained unbeaten at the venue when he strode clear for another convincing victory over 1340m. He's from the Per Incanto mare Fascino Lass. Ma Te Wa continues a great season for his sire, who is currently 2nd on the New Zealand sires premiership for 3-year-old winners behind Proisir.
