Matamata-based horseman Glenn Old’s ambitious million-dollar dream continued its trajectory with Adam I Am on Saturday, as the impressive gelding followed up his highly-discussed maiden victory with another stellar performance at Hastings.
Despite significant interest from potential buyers following his Matamata triumph, Old and the rest of the Adam I Am syndicate opted to retain ownership, setting their sights on the inaugural $1 million Aotearoa Classic (1600m) for four-year-olds at Karaka Millions in January.
On Livamol Classic Day, Adam I Am, a firm +100 race favourite, showcased his prowess, breaking boldly from the 1400m start under the guidance of jockey Jasmine Fawcett.
Positioned strategically in fourth behind a brisk pace set by Herbert, the four-year-old gelding, though initially green in the straight, surged past Herbert, securing a comfortable victory by two-and-a-quarter lengths over The Diviner and second-favourite Channel Surfer.
Old expressed his satisfaction with Fawcett’s handling of Adam I Am, stating, “I was just really happy with how Jasmine handled him, very retractable in the box seat, and he relaxed well. She pulled him off heels and presented him, and he found the line nicely.”
Fawcett, who claimed her second victory aboard the gelding, shared her excitement, noting, “That was his first time being cuddled up amongst them, so I was a bit nervous, but he just fell asleep beautifully and found the line really strong.”
Looking ahead to the Karaka Million 4YO Mile, Old emphasised the horse’s readiness, saying, “Glenn’s preparing him to go over more ground, obviously the Karaka Million 4YO Mile, so I think he’s right on for that. Glenn’s had a few good horses in his time, so he knows.”
Adam I Am currently holds the second-favourite position for the newly-established four-year-old feature at +700 with online betting sites, with the top spot occupied by +300-favourite Legarto, a mare bound for the $10 million Golden Eagle.
Old outlined the future plans for Adam I Am, stating, “I’d like to give him a little break somewhere for two or three weeks, then bring him back and have one or two runs before the big one. He’s put the starting fee away today so that’s good.”
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