Savoy Grills Rotorua Rivals

Well-related four-year-old Savoy showed admirable fighting qualities at Rotorua yesterday to land the second victory of his career. The WS-bred and owned half-brother by Savabeel to the triple Gr 1 winner Daffodil had looked to be under pressure on the home turn but he responded in fine style to rider James McDonald’s urgings.

“They put the pressure on down the back and James got him out into the open and he’s won nicely in the end,” successful trainer Peter McKay said. Savoy led early before he eased to trail and was under strong riding to improve wide near the turn. He rallied bravely to challenge 150 metres from home and drew away nicely to score by

He is out of the O’Reilly mare Spring who has now left four winners at stud with the outstanding Daffodil the star of her brood. The New Zealand 1000 Guineas, Windsor Park Plate and Australian Oaks heroine was retired earlier this year and has been served by resident stallion Pins.