There was a sense of anticipation in the air for the owners of Djockovic on Sunday at Seymour when he lined up in the Fowles Wines Maiden Plate. After running the fastest last 200m of the meeting at Sale over the unsuitable 1400m, the writing was on the wall.
Djockovic jumped positively and was able to take up a spot outside the leader before the Mick Sell trained horse Sweat and Tears crossed. They got going early and Blaike McDougall was forced to expose him from the 500m mark and he hit the front a long way out. He continued the grind up the straight and was challenged by the Freeman horse to his inside, however Blaike swapped the persuader to the right hand and he came strongly again, fighting back and holding off Arqana to win by a head.
This horse still has a lot to learn and did plenty wrong but was too strong and will be suited out to 2000m and beyond. He has a great deal of talent and upside and it was exciting to get a win on the board with this prized Irish import. Well done to a fantastic group of owners, a great blend of new owners and loyal stable clients as well as Cameron Cooke who sourced the horse for us from Ireland. The horse is still a preparation or two away but clearly has a bright future.
