And the winner is Sidenay, we have waited a while to say it, but could there be a better way to start the New Year?
Even former International Olympic Committee boss Juan Antonio Samaranch, who inspired the name Sid-a-knee would have been proud.
You could call it a victory for the true believers, Sidenay saluting like a good thing at Taree on Tuesday, January 2 over 1250m.
In sport you mostly get what you deserve, and it’s fair to say that Sidenay deserved that Maiden win.
He has been an honest performer for the NSW Tycoons, and yes, it has taken him 16 runs to break his Maiden, but there were very few times when he “never put in”. His five minor placings, including the two seconds this preparation, are testimony to that.
TACTICS
There are no better tactics in the racing game than “Jump, go to the front, and improve your position”, and that’s exactly what jockey Jean Van Overmeire did on Sidenay.
“It was a good win; he began well and cruised to the lead. He did have a bit of a look around getting there, but once there, he bowled along at his own speed.
He actually showed a good turn of foot today without me having to work him into it.
He also responded when challenged in the straight and is still learning what it’s all about which is surprising because he’s been around a while now.
He’s won now, so that’s all good, he handles a soft track and I reckon he can also go up in distance, so plenty of positives.” Jockey Jean Van Overmeire said.
“He was very strong through the line, and it was a well-deserved win” Trainer Kim Waugh
HARD WORK & PERSERVERANCE
The win was also a great reward for trainer Kim Waugh and her team who never lost faith in Sidenay.
“He was very strong through the line, and it was a well-deserved win. He has been racing so well this preparation so congratulations to him and all the NSW Tycoons.
He has pulled up good, so it’s just a matter of finding another nice race with him, but I’m happy for the horse and the team.” Trainer Kim Waugh said.
NEXT STEPS
Kim has picked out a couple of likely targets for Sidenay.
There’s a Class 1 in Canberra on Friday January 12, which has appeal, and he’ll also be nominated for Kembla Grange on Saturday January 13.
Wouldn’t it be lovely to go back-to-back with Sidenay & once again proclaim, “And the winner is…”
Go you good thing!