New Zealand-bred gelding Sounds Unusual hinted at a bright future over staying distances with a maiden victory at Canterbury on New Year’s Day.
The four-year-old began his career only a month ago, finishing strongly from last to run second over 1500m at Newcastle on December 1. He produced another late run for third over 1900m at Canterbury on December 13, earning $1.45 favouritism with Neds for his third career start on Wednesday.
Sounds Unusual was ridden patiently by Nash Rawiller, who took up a midfield position before angling his mount into a gap two off the fence at the top of the home straight. Sounds Unusual gradually built up his momentum and surged past the leaders, stretching out well to win by just under a length.
“The barrier (gate two) probably helped him today and he had the right run,” Rawiller said. “He’s still learning his craft. He’s a bit of a big, gangly kid and a bit of a dope. He did a good job to win here today on a small track.
“He’s got good scope and will keep improving. I reckon he’s still six months away. He’s been given the time to mature, and a bit more of that mental and physical maturity will take him a long way.”
The Chris Waller-trained Sounds Unusual has now had three starts for a win, two placings and $60,950 in stakes.
Sounds Unusual was bred by Letham Stud’s Nigel and Adaire Auret, who put him through his early paces in the Marton stable of their son Fraser. He was a 1000m trial winner at Foxton in October before being privately sold across the Tasman to one of Waller’s major clients, the Muollo family. Waller’s wife Stephanie also shares in the ownership.
“It was a patient ride from Nash, but you’ve got to have the horsepower to show that patience, and he had that today,” Waller’s assistant trainer Charlie Duckworth said. “This is great for Tony Muollo, who’s a pretty passionate owner. He’s on course today, so it’s very pleasing to get a win for him.”
Horse racing news
