The GP Turf Handicap – Grade I
1 1/8 Mile Turf Stake Purse $350.000 Open 4 Year Olds And Up.

1st The Perfect Day, trained by Downwind Stables
On a day when the stalk seemed to be the place to be this gelded son of Quench finally delivered the sort of win we all knew he had in him. Racing off a light weight he always looked in charge of this race and won by just under a length with a certain amount of authority. It would be great to see his career take off now but he will first have to prove he can beat these type of horses on level weights.

2nd Tin Lizzie, trained by Stald Gullis
The BC Mile winner stuck to his guns right to the line but always looked held by the winner. The extra weight would certainly been the tipping point and this must go down as a pleasing effort for his connections.

3rd Classic Cliche, trained by Blushing Meadows
Showed some of his old zip to get third keeping on nicely but was well held by the first two and only a length off last place so i am not sure this could be seen as a launch pad for future grade ones.

4th Mars, trained by Hawaiian Shirt Guy
Shot to a clear lead and stuck on well enough to be fourth. He still has ability but really struggles when out under pressure at the end of his race.

SUMMARY
I have said it a few times but this race had everything HRP throws out these days. A wide gate shooting to the lead and weakening. A previously top dirt horse making a switch to turf and winning. The BC champ in last place but beaten only three lengths and a race dominated by on speed. It makes for a great spectacle but it doesnt really help the punters sort out the form when this lot meet again.

Categories: Grade I, STAKES ARTICLES