3 minute read
Trainer and jockey quotes after Beltoro claims the Lexus Legends Plate Benchmark 70 3YO Handicap at Flemington on Saturday.
Race Result:
1st: Beltoro (J Hill/R Hickmott) - $11
2nd: Field Of Roses (L Nolen/P Stokes) - $5.50
3rd: Montepulciano (M Dee/R & C Jolly) - $10
Winning Time: 1:22.79 Last 600m: 35.10
Margins: 2L x Neck
Winning Trainer: Robert Hickmott
Impressed to transfer form from Bendigo to Flemington: "There was plenty of upside going into Bendigo and he really came on nicely with his trackwork. He's got a real level head, the horse. It was a lovely patient ride by Jack there and I'm very happy for him. He doesn't get too many opportunities in town. He's got the ability, he just needs a few more opportunities."
Faith in Jack: "He rides work for Mick Price at Caulfield and he's always there for us. Liam Riordan has also done a lot of work on this horse as well. He was down to ride him at Sandown on Wednesday. We had a look at the fields and thought for triple the prizemoney here, we'd have a shy at the stumps. It's paid off and I'm very happy for Mark Leo and the team. He bred the horse and it looks to have a very bright future."
More to come in his pedigree: "He's reminding me more of Zabeel everytime I look at him as he shapes up. Mark has just sent the half-sister to us by Puissance De Lune, so she's got a good staying pedigree there as well and hopefully she can turn into an Oaks filly."
Winning Jockey: Jack Hill
"I guess it's hard to find a good horse and stay on him. Rob and the connections have been great for me. Normally when they come to town I get replaced which is understandable, but to stay on one and win the race, is even better."
Progression from first victory: "Since his first win his trackwork has improved, he seems much happier and I actually said to Rob when he was in at Sandown I wasn't happy as he had the big weight and he had to claim, but he found a race here at Flemington that looked ideal for him and he said that's where we'll go. I was pretty happy that Rob chose that way and thanks to Rob and the owners for that support."