Hennessy Lad continues purple patch of form
Maintaining his impressive record, the four-year-old gelding Hennessy Lad showcased his unwavering consistency by securing his fourth victory out of nine starts at Moonee Valley on Saturday.
Under the joint guidance of trainers Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, Hennessy Lad assumed the role of the $3.10 favourite with online bookmakers. The quote was warranted due to his compelling performance in previous outings at Flemington, where he showcased his prowess with two commendable runs, including a notable second-place finish in his most recent appearance.
Benefitting from the expert navigation of jockey Luke Nolen, Hennessy Lad, hailing from the lineage of Belardo, positioned himself skilfully just behind the leading pack.
Capitalising on a well-timed acceleration at the pinnacle of the straight, he surged forward with an impressive burst of speed, triumphing by half a length to Legend Of Dubai.
Raced by a syndicate headed by Wylie Dalziel, Hennessy Lad has now won $253,900 in prizemoney.
“He’s such an honest horse,” Dalziel said. “We bought him out of New Zealand, myself and Moods, and he’s never finished further back than fourth.
“You know he’s just going to give a tough, honest effort and he did that today, so our thanks to Mr Moody and Katherine and all the team.”
Despite having competed well at Group Two level when fourth in the Autumn Classic (1800m) won by Pericles, Dalziel was keen to just take small steps.
“He could get out over more ground. We tested him a bit last preparation. We are all for taking them through the grades and we won’t rush him up to any Group races I don’t think.
“Moods will take him through the grades – he felt like he might be another Pounding, where he might just progressively work his way through the grades, and maybe get to the top company one day.
“He is certainly honest and it was a great ride.”
Nolen concurred with Dalziel’s assessment and said the horse was a tough performer.
“I thought he was good and sound, he’s a horse that probably likes to build and we got an opportunity to do that,” Nolen said.
“He quickens well enough to get himself well and truly into a race, but then he holds that gallop. We had an opportunity to build to our top before straightening and he held that gallop to the line.
“Around this grade, he’s going to keep winning races when placed to advantage.”