News

Easter colts enrich future with Caulfield G1 double

13th Oct 2018

World-class colt The Autumn Sun extended his almost impeccable career record with a historic Caulfield Guineas win, just three weeks after his breathtaking Golden Rose win.

Despite being in an unfavourable position three-deep without cover, the colt still managed to sprint away and win by 4.5L with Vassilator in second and Oohood in third.

The son of Redoute’s Choice was knocked down to bloodstock agent Guy Mulcaster on behalf of Hermitage Thoroughbreds and Chris Waller Racing for $700,000 at last year’s Australian Easter Yearling Sale, where he was offered by Arrowfield Stud.

Their hope initially was to purchase a derby colt, but already they have landed the colt of his generation.

Whilst Mulcaster knew he was special from when he was purchased, he still remains astonished as to the heights the colt has reached.

Trainer Chris Waller was blown away by the performance of the colt.

“We’ve just seen what he is capable of,” Waller said.

“I’ve had a bit of experience with nice colts and he is as good as they get, he is a superstar.

“He covered extra ground, he was near the lead which was unfamiliar to him but it just shows how good he is.”

The timely win helps complete a desirable narrative for Arrowfield Stud, who this week announced they had purchased a 50% stake in the colt with the intention of retiring him to their farm.

Arrowfield principal John Messara was ecstatic with the win of the colt.

“We’re absolutely delighted to share such a wonderful win with Hermitage Thoroughbreds and Chris Waller and his team,” Messara said.

“To sit as wide as he did and then win in such a dominant manner confirms that The Autumn Sun is a very special horse.

“It is extra special that we bred and sold him with The Aga Khan studs at Inglis Easter and that he has won the race that made his sire Redoute’s Choice a legend 19 years ago.”

Guy Mulcaster believed the horse was capable of a feat like today and is thrilled to think for the horses future.

It will be a great thrill to see him stand at Arrowfield,” Mulcaster said.

“He still has a great racing career ahead of him and then will be given every chance at stud.

“We appreciate that Hermitage entrusted us with the order to purchase the horse.

“He was pigeon holed as a horse that needed a trip, but to win the Golden Rose and do what he did today he proved he is another class.”

**Meanwhile Stratum entire Land Of Plenty claimed his maiden Group 1 victory in winning the Toorak Handicap at Caulfield. **

With a barnstorming finish in the mile handicap race, the Darren Weir trained galloper proved he was a savvy purchase not once, but twice.

Sold for $80,000 at the 2015 Australian Easter Yearling Sale by Twin Palms Stud, the then colt showed talent early days in the track.

A 30% share in Land Of Plenty was offered by Grandlodge Thoroughbreds at the inaugural Inglis Chairman’s sale, where Clive Smith secured the share at $32,000.

Trainer Darren Weir said the race had been part the plan for the entire this spring.

“The [Sir] Rupert Clark and the Toorak were the races he was targeted for,” Weir said.

“He’s a great type of horse, got a great pedigree and is still a stallion.

“He’s a Group 1 winner now, and I don’t think it will be his last the way he went.”

The Autumn Sun

2017 Australian Easter Yearling Sale - $700,000

Buyer: Chris Waller Racing / Hermitage Thoroughbreds

Vendor: Arrowfield Stud

Breeder: Arrowfield Group Pty Ltd

Land Of Plenty

2015 Australian Easter Yearling Sale - $80,000

Buyer: Shane Nichols Racing

Vendor: Twin Palms Stud

Breeder: Esplin Family

2017 Inglis Chairman’s Sale - $32,000 (30% Share)

Buyer: Clive Smith

Vendor: Grandlodge Thoroughbreds