Sam Clipperton returns for immediate success with Artistry
HONG Kong-based jockey Sam Clipperton returned to Australia for Coolmore Classic Day and enjoyed immediate success when Artistry took out the Group 3 Maurice McCarten Stakes at Rosehill.
The talented rider linked up with the Peter and Paul Snowden-trained mare which was settled at the rear of the field before producing a stylish sprint to down race-favourite Dothraki near the line.
The five-year-old mare ($5.50 at Ladbrokes) extended its winning record at Rosehill to four wins from five starts and it marked the return of a quality mare which should progress nicely this autumn.
“Good win, Peter and Paul were both confident in the horse’s chances being fresh,” Clipperton said.
“Got back and once I got to the outside she really wound up well and hit the line nicely.”
Paul Snowden wasn’t sure whether it would handle the rain-affected going, but Artistry overcome all barriers on Saturday to record a classy win.
“Look it’s not her preferred ground. Being obviously fresh we thought she may get away with it and also it was 1100m,” Snowden said.
“All her form is 1200m and a little bit further. It was a little bit uncharted territory for her but she has come away with a win today.”
Snowden might look to the Sapphire Stakes in three weeks time for Artistry to light up the track again.
“She should have kicked off a couple of weeks ago. So she has been held back. We may wait nearly three weeks to the Sapphire,” Snowden said.
“We will see what happens and the weather will determine that.”
It was a welcome return for Sam Clipperton who has been riding in impressive form in Hong Kong this season.
“Good to back, loving my time in Hong Kong, but it’s got to be back here for the carnival,” Clipperton said.
“I’m working very hard with my manager, getting in tough with owners and trainers. Should be back for a couple of more meetings yet.
“Fly out tonight and a big day at Sha Tin tomorrow with eight rides.”
Clipperton rides Victorian mare Silent Sedition ($14 at CrownBet.com.au) in the Group 1 Coolmore Classic.