Homebred a worthy winner at Sale

The Mansman posted a richly deserved and long overdue maiden success when he resumed at Sale on Wednesday afternoon.

The son of Almanzor was making his first appearance since his autumn preparation and was presented in forward condition by trainer Phillip Stokes to finish over the top of his rivals at the end of 1200 metres.

Bred by Waikato Stud, The Mansman had gone frustratingly close to a breakthrough victory last season with five consecutive runner-up finishes from seven previous outings.

He performed up to 2000 metres, but the stable feel he is more effective at the shorter trips.

“I feel he might be best at 1200 to 1400 metres and we’ll keep him fresh,” Stokes said. “He’ll progress through to city grade.”

Gelded since last racing, The Mansman settled off the pace from a wide gate at Sale before improving widest near the turn and he held a sustained finish in the run home.

“There was a bit of concern about the barrier, but he switched off and we got a cosy run into it and he went through his gears nicely,” winning rider Daniel Stackhouse said.

The Mansman was offered on behalf of Waikato Stud by Sledmere Stud at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale where he was sold to DGR Thoroughbred Services and Stokes for A$330,000 with the Matamata farm remaining in the ownership group.

He is a son of the Savabeel mare Hurry who is a three-quarter sister to the late multiple Group 1 winner and successful sire Sacred Falls.

The dam has an Ocean Park yearling colt and is due to foal this season to Ardrossan.