Kia Ora Stallions’ dual Group-winning 2YO, Prague, continues to build momentum, adding another winner to his growing tally with Straight Sets putting on an explosive display at Newcastle on Saturday.
The Annabel and Rob Archibald-trained filly had shown plenty of promise leading into the race with a strong trial record winning or placing in four of her five appearances. Sent out as favourite for the 900m dash with Reece Jones aboard, she justified the support in style.
Jumping smartly, Straight Sets settled just off the early pace before producing a decisive turn of foot down the straight to draw level with race leader Precious Girl, with the pair pulling away from the rest of the field. In a determined drive to the line, she showed real grit and determination, surging clear late to take the win.
Co-trainer Annabel Archibald was delighted to see the filly break her maiden at what was only her second start and believes she’s of City class.
“She was terrific on Saturday. They ran home in 32.99, so they ran home lickety split and it was great to get the maiden out of the way on just her second start.
“We’re going to keep going soft with her and build confidence. We think she’s City class but we aren’t in a rush and will keep stepping along slowly.”
Jockey Reece Jones was equally pleased with her performance and the professionalism she showed.
“It was great to get that maiden win out of the way. She’s got plenty of personality but once she was in the gates, she relaxed nicely and didn’t put a foot wrong.
“She bounced out well and I let her find her feet. I had plenty of horse underneath me and just let her build.
“She’ll be better for the experience, and she put it all together really well.”
Out of the multiple Group winner Sabatini, Straight Sets was a $375,000 Magic Millions Gold Coast purchase for her trainers and William Johnson Bloodstock from the Kia Ora Stud draft. She races for a large ownership group including Throsby Racing, whose colours she carries, and is a half-sister to stakes-placed Kia Ora-bred and raced Fire Star.
Her victory marks another important milestone for her sire Prague with Straight Sets’ win following that of Emalyn, who bolted in to score by two and a half lengths at the same venue on earlier in the month.
A dual Group-winning 2YO and runner-up in the Group 1 ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes, where he beat home Ole Kirk, Prague represents exceptional value among the sons of the legendary Redoute’s Choice. He stands this season at Kia Ora Stallions for a fee of $11,000, including GST, making him the best-value son of Redoute’s Choice at stud in New South Wales.
For breeding enquiries or to discuss sending your mare to Prague, please contact Allison Sedgwick on +61 407 768 846.
