A win in the Gr.1 Australian Guineas marked JHB purchase Wandjina as a valuable stallion prospect, a pulsating second, splitting the two best sprinter/milers in country in Dissident and Chautauqua, in the Gr.1 All Aged Stakes at the weekend set him up for so much more. He will now be set up for a tilt taking on Europe’s best in the Gr.1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes on the Saturday of Royal Ascot, before heading to the birthplace of horse racing, Newmarket, for the July Cup.
Showcasing the brilliance that was always present in Wandjina has been a training masterclass from Gai Waterhouse, who has nurtured this colt through to Group 1 glory. The recent Inglis Sydney Easter Yearling sales were a timely reminder of how small the racing world has become, as the elite of the world descended upon Australia. The world has taken notice of the health and vibrance of the Australian racing industry, and most importantly, the toughness and brilliance of the Australian thoroughbred. Taking Wandjina to England is to showcase to the world a horse who embodies Australian racing – a tough, speed horse with more than a touch of brilliance.
The Bateman family has always retained great faith in their colt, and were sporting in their attempt to race their other Gr.1 winning colt, Foxwedge, in England – a long-term favourite for the Golden Jubilee, he was unable to travel after contracting a throat infection. The Bateman family were also partnered in Foxwedge by Newgate Farm, who have done an exemplary job in promoting and managing this exciting young stallion to great yearling results this year. With that in mind, it is also particularly pleasing that Newgate will once again partner with the Bateman family, and join them in racing their latest super colt at Royal Ascot.
JHB purchases will now, most excitingly, make up two of the four Australian raiders so far confirmed for Royal Ascot, with last-start Gr.1 Oakleigh Plate winner Shamal Wind for Donna and Rob Love already well on the path for the Gr.1 King’s Stand Stakes on the Tuesday – everybody better get their suits and top hats ready!