Rivals chase WS debutant in vain

4 August 2015

Bullrush posted a commanding debut victory in the WS colours at Goulburn this afternoon. Team Hawkes made a rare visit to a country track to launch the four-year-old’s career and it proved a perfect move.

The Garry Chittick-bred and raced son of O’Reilly, who had been unbeaten in two lead-up trials, had no trouble justifying his red-hot favouritism under rider Jay Ford. He sat with the leader to the turn and then left his rivals in his wake when asked for an effort.

“He is an exciting horse in the making,” said co-trainer Michael Hawkes after the win.

“Today’s win is not a surprise. We’ve had a good opinion of him since coming over from New Zealand. He’s still green and learning, but he has a lot of upside and ability. The big thing about today was giving him a trip away.

“He’ll go out for a spell now. The key to him will be patience.”

Bullrush is a half-brother to the Gr.2 Cal Isuzu Stakes winner Sports Illustrated (Fast N Famous). Their dam Pin Up a half-sister to the WS-bred international Group One winner and sire Starcraft.

Mr Bombasa gives Banquo another winner

Three-year-old colt Mr Bombasa provided another winner this season for Banquo, who is having a watershed season with a Group 3 winner and performer also turning heads.

4 April 2026

Ardrossan’s son Cannon Hill wins en route to Gr.3 Easter Handicap

WS-bred Cannon Hill (Ardrossan ex Vanilla Essence) won on Saturday, setting himself up for the perfect run toward the Gr.3 Easter Handicap at Ellerslie on 18 April for Tony Pike.