By Paul Vettise
In an early season show of the stable’s 3-year-old firepower, Anthony Freedman produced Super Seth (Dundeel {NZ}) and King Of Hastings (Ilovethiscity) to dominate the finish of the G3 HDF McNeill S. at Caulfield.
Super Seth had the wood on his barn mate on Saturday and the duo loom as serious players, which ever spring paths they are set on, by the Mornington trainer.
“They are both lovely horses. Super Seth got a good run closer than we thought and he needs more speed in his races which will happen in the better races,” Freedman said.
Super Seth winning the G3 HDF McNeill S. at Caulfield
Super Seth, who was bought by agent Dean Hawthorne for $280,000 out of Arrowfield Stud's Inglis Easter Yearling Yearling consignment, was making his first appearance of the new season after winning twice as a juvenile and placing in his other appearance.
Both of his successes came over 1200 metres and while he lost his unbeaten record over further in the Listed Anzac Day S. at Flemington, Freedman won’t pigeon hole the colt as an out and out speed horse just yet.
“He may go to Flemington in a couple of weeks’ time for a run up the straight and we’ve trialled him there with that in mind,” he said.
“He may go to Flemington in a couple of weeks’ time for a run up the straight and we’ve trialled him there with that in mind.” – Anthony Freedman.
“He could then to the Guineas Prelude and we’ll see what happens. We could switch him back to 1200 metres or go up to a mile.
“All his wins so far have come over the short courses and in one run at 1400 metres he led and had probably had enough at that stage.”
Rod Douglas and Anthony Freedman
Super Seth travelled comfortably in fourth spot for rider Mark Zahra with his barn-mate King Of Hastings making the running. He lengthened stride when urged along and was too strong over the closing 200 metres.
“He was a bit fresh and lobbed into a nice spot and it was a very good effort,” Zahra said.
“He was first-up so there’s plenty of improvement to come. He’s probably my best ride for the spring and he’s a nice, big, strong horse with plenty of ability.”
Jockey Mark Zahra chatting with the owners post race
Freedman was also satisfied with the effort of King Of Hastings, who kicked on well to take second money from Sebrakate (Sebring), who had trouble finding a clear passage in the straight.
“They are both lovely horses and the second horse is very honest,” Freedman said. “We didn’t really want to lead on him, but nothing else wanted to and he (Zahra) slowed them as best as he could. He was very genuine and brave.”
