Go Bloodstock homebred Front Rank looks to have a highly promising future ahead after delivering a clinical performance to score on debut in the Toyota Forklifts Handicap (1250m) at Canterbury.
The beautifully bred three-year-old gelding faced an immediate test on a testing Heavy 9 surface with a hefty top weight of 59kg. Handled masterfully by jockey Tim Clark, the son of Snitzel showed the tactical versatility of the Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott yard. Clark worked across to execute a positive, aggressive game plan, asking the youngster to dig deep when challenged.
Front Rank responded like a seasoned professional, showing great stamina and a powerful engine to lift strongly through the testing conditions and cruise to a clear, two-and-a-half-length win over Incremental and Artgirl.
Co-trainer Adrian Bott was full of praise for the gelding’s mental toughness and fitness: “Tim was very confident and went out with a clear plan. He probably had to do a little bit more work than he wanted to get there, but he was backing the horse’s fitness and ability, and he sustained that very well. We’ve been able to just take our time with him, and that’s what’s so good about being able to train for Sir Owen Glenn and Steve O’Connor.”
As a full-brother to Group 1 winner turned stallion Sword Of State, Front Rank’s victory is an immense result for the stable’s breeding operation. Out of the Group 2-placed Encosta De Lago mare In The Vanguard, Front Rank has clearly inherited the family’s class and determination.
With a breakthrough city win under his belt on debut, the stable plans to let him go quietly through his grades as he builds through a very bright preparation.
