It’s not going to be a win that gives SZR headlines in the newspaper, nor will it line our pockets with riches but Brilliant Venture’s victory yesterday at Swan Hill is what racing is all about.
A mere $22,000NZD purchase from the New Zealand South Island, the horse was syndicated amongst a group of Simon’s close friends. He’s been a work in progress and after breaking his maiden in September of 2019, where in the same campaign he was placed in the Group 3 Norman Robinson, indicating he was a stayer of some promise. His best win came in January 2022 at Caulfield, but has since been in the wilderness.
Yesterday he found himself back in a BM58 at Swan Hill some 660 since his last win. Jumping from the outside barrier, he showed his customary gate speed and rolled to the front. He was pulling hard early as usual but apprentice Ryan Houston was able to restrain him eventually and rated him to perfection throughout the run. He was a little flat when let off the bridle but built into his work and kicked again at the 200m mark, holding off his rivals and running out a comfortable 1.75L winner.
Huge credit must go to the owners who stuck with him, Simon for his resilience throughout many issues with the horse, and trackrider Will Stewart who has worked tirelessly to get this horse back firing. He’ll gain plenty of confidence from the win and we look forward to his next assignment.
