News

Easter Graduate Elvstroem wins Group One in Dubai

26th Mar 2005

Popular Tony Vasil trained four year old ELVSTROEM (2002 Easter $330,000) became the first Australian horse to win at the prestigious Dubai World Cup meeting, when he took out the Dubai Duty Free Gr 1 at the Nad Al Sheba track on Saturday night (our time).

“It’s great to come all this way, and he won convincingly, so it’s quite a thrill," said trainer Tony Vasil.

"He lost a bit of weight when he arrived, but after a week here he’s fine. If ever there was a horse to try it with, it would be him because he has a wonderful temperament, he never gets rattled."

Elvstroem led all the way from an outside draw, crossing quickly to take control of the race before charging clear to win by two and three quarter lengths.

Elvstroem was offered at the 2002 Australian Easter Yearling Sale by Coolmore Stud as agent, selling for $330,000 before an x-ray issue emerged resulting in the horse being returned to his breeder Frank Tagg.

Tagg elected to race his horse and in a career spanning 27 starts to date, Elvstroem has won ten races earning prizemoney of nearly $5 million.

By champion sire Danehill (USA) from the AJC Oaks winner Circles of Gold, Elvstroem has the pedigree and race performance to be considered an outstanding sire prospect.

Leading Victorian stud Blue Gum Farm secured a 50% share in Elvstroem before he commenced this current campaign, an astute move given the four year old has since added a 1400 metre Group One to his record in winning the MRC C.F. Orr Stakes and now an international Group One as well.

“We congratulate Elvstroem’s connections on this remarkable achievement and his success is another clear example of what the Australian thoroughbred is capable of doing when given the opportunity,” said Inglis Managing Director, Reg Inglis.

For further information contact: Reg Inglis 0412 399 799
Melissa O’Gorman 0417 673 336