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Britannicus jumps to Australian Steeplechase success

3 minute read

Britannicus has given a faultless display of jumping to win the Australian Steeplechase at Sandown.

BRITANNICUS.
BRITANNICUS. Picture: Racing Photos

Britannicus has appreciated firmer ground to lead throughout and claim the Australian Seteeplechase at Sandown

The Symon Wilde-trained jumper, sent out the $2.30 favourite, gave a faultless display over the 3900m course on Sunday to defeat his stablemate Elvison ($2.90) by six lengths with Once Were Lost ($9.50) a further eight lengths away third. 

Britannicus was his own worst enemy when second to stablemate Vanguard in the Brierly Steeplechase (3450m) on the opening day of the Warrnambool Three-Day Carnival earlier this month, but under Aaron Lynch on Sunday was a more settled galloper. 

He was able to conserve energy despite going up in distance and never looked like being challenged. 

"When I walked the track, I knew this would be his sort of ground," Wilde said. 

"He was desperately unlucky in the Brierly and he made amends today. 

"He's a terrific jumper. He really flies through the air, but it's heart in your mouth sort of stuff with two to jumps to go as he was bolting." 

Wilde said he was likely to keep Britannicus in work for the remainder of the jumps season, but he is mindful of track conditions with the gelding. 

"He's in that lovely spot at the moment and he's sound," Wilde said. 

"He didn't jump left today which was terrific, so we'll keep him going but we've got to be mindful of track conditions. 

"If it gets to a Heavy 10, he's probably not at his best, but he can handle slow ground, so we'll keep going and have a look at some of the jumps races coming up." 

Wilde said Elvison was the opposite of Brittanicus with a liking of wet ground. 

"When he gets back on ground that's a little softer and around corners again, he'll be a great horse to aim at something like the Thackeray Steeplechase at Warrnambool." Wilde said. 


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