First-up on a deteriorating track proved no obstacle for BOMBARDEO at Canberra on Friday.
Having shown potential in three unplaced runs last campaign, the son of EL ROCA started a $2.50 favourite in the 1200m maiden with Nick Heywood aboard.
Despite not having run for almost five months, BOMBARDEO proved too strong for his opposition, sustaining a long run from the tail to win in the shadows of the post.
With the rail out 10m on a soft (7) surface, the four-year-old gelding swept down the outside fence in a thrilling performance.
“Good win. He travelled sweetly during the race and it was just a matter of when I pushed the button,” Heywood said.
“First-up on a testing track he probably felt the pinch late, but he was too good for them today.”
BOMBARDEO is the first foal from the Group-placed mare FLOWER BOMB (ONE COOL CAT) and was purchased by Proven Thoroughbreds for $NZ67.5k at the 2018 NZB Karaka Book 2 Yearling Sale.
BOMBARDEO’s maiden-breaking win enhances an already potent partnership between John Bateman Racing and Proven Thoroughbreds which has now yielded 14 individual winners from 16 runners (87.5% strike rate).
