Savabeel’s son back in top form

Witsabouthim returned to winning ways at Sale on Wednesday afternoon when he handled a rise in distance to 2200 metres with aplomb to add to his record.

The son of Savabeel won two of his three New Zealand appearances from Tony Pike’s stable before an Australian syndicate including prominent owner Ozzie Kheir bought into the gelding.

A number of the original ownership remained in the 4-year-old, including breeder Waikato Stud.

Witsabouthim was making his fourth Australian appearance today and while a fourth placing had been his previous best effort, new trainers Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young weren’t downhearted.

“He’s been knocking on the door and while his form didn’t read that well, we felt his runs had held plenty of merit,” stable representative Brendon Hawtin said.

Witsabouthim travelled kindly in fifth spot for rider Daniel Moor before he loomed into contention 250 metres from home and fought on determinedly to open his Australian account.

“He was ridden a lot handier and let down really well. He will draw a lot of confidence from that and we’re sure he can go on with it,” Hawtin said.

A $250,000 Karaka yearling, Witsabouthim is a half-brother to the Listed Wellesley S. winner Maritimo, who also placed at Group 3 level in the Eclipse S. and Sunline Vase, and their dam Miracle Miss was a multiple winner and was stakes placed.

She is a sister to the dual Group 3 winner and G1 Captain Cook S. placegetter Dating and has a family full of black-type winners, including the G1 Auckland Cup winner Senator.

A Waikato Stud-bred brother to Witsabouthim was purchased at the Inglis Classic Yearling Sale this
year for A$320,000 and the dam produced a colt in 2021 to Super Seth before a return visit.