Gippsland News: Nose Denies Pete First City Double
- Sunday, 23 May 2010 14:00
Moe trainer Peter Gelagotis came within a breath of scoring his first metropolitan double at Sandown Lakeside last Wednesday when Savquaw notched his third city win and Belgietto was beaten the narrowest of margins.
Gelagotis earmarked both gallopers as horses to follow in the coming weeks in this column three weeks ago.
“Savquaw’s effort was good and the situation with him is that we are not looking too far ahead. When I say that, I must add we have the Moe Cup in October again on his agenda long term, but in relation to the next few weeks, it is a case of all options being open,” said Peter.
“It is no secret he prefers give in the ground and he will be placed with that in mind. If conditions suit, the Country Cup at Flemington could be an option, or we may even look interstate with him.
“He is also capable on top of the ground, but when it’s wet it just swings things in his favor a bit more. He is in career best form and the horse is in great order,” he said.
HOOF ON TILL
The run of Belgietto in finishing a nose second to the unbeaten Lloyd Williams owned Base just two races later was enormous.
“I have said if before and I will say it again – I believe this horse is potentially the best I have put a saddle on,” said Peter.
“He had no luck at all, being caught three wide with no cover and his performance was enormous. I don’t think anyone would argue that if the runs were reversed he would win comfortably.
“There are plenty of options for this horse in Victoria in the immediate future and I expect him to certainly be competitive the next time he steps out.”
One gets the feeling stable supporters would have had very full pockets had Belgietto got home!!
FRUSTRATION
Despite the win of Savquaw, the narrow loss of Belgietto was just part of an otherwise frustrating week for the stable.
Encosta Rica was also beaten a lip at Pakenham yesterday and this came after Carneggan Dasher finished at Moe Monday and Carneggan Angel ran into third place at Kilmore.
While we are on the Moe horses, Alpharari (Allison Bennett) and Prinsom (Michael Templeton) finished second at Bendigo and Kyneton respectively and will pay to put in the black book.
Stony Creek galloper, Rockpecker dropped back to 1200 metres at his most recent start at Flemington and found the line well, hinting a return to his best may not be far away.
Pictures: Colin Bull
