Promising Altius has his admirers

Altius is a three-year-old with a particularly bright future, but whether that will be in New Zealand remains to be seen. The handsome son of Savabeel has been targeted by potential buyers and his latest win at Trentham is sure to reignite interest.

“There have been some offers for him, but not enough – I’ve got my price on him,” trainer and part-owner Tony Cole said. “He’s a stunner and he’s got a lovely nature, he’s the whole package. I’ll probably back off him now, he’s done all I’ve asked of him.”

Altius was a winner on debut only to be relegated and then broke his maiden at Ellerslie at his next appearance. Two further placed runs preceded his victory at Trentham where he was given an ideal run by Leith Innes and was far too strong for his older rivals in the closing 250 metres.

Bred by WS, he was purchased out of their 2012 Select Sale draft to Karaka by Cole for $22,000. He is out of the Viking Ruler mare Natural Rhythm and is a brother to the Listed Canterbury Stakes winner and Group One performer Ray’s Girl. The Matamata farm sold their half-brother by Pins for $200,000 earlier this year.