The Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou-trained Brosnan got a long overdue maiden victory in the second event at Flemington on Saturday, toughing it out to win the 2YO Handicap (1400m) by four-tenths of a length.
The grey son of Snitzel had raced three times prior to Saturday – all of which was at Group level – so the drop back in grade was the key to his victory.
Watch Brosnan Win At Flemington
Having been last seen when seventh behind Fireburn in the Group 1 ATC Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on April 2, the market gravitated towards the maiden galloper, which saw him start a $2.50 favourite with online bookmakers.
After jumping well from barrier two, Jye McNeil – who won the opening event on the program – put the colt in the box seat, before coming to the middle of the track in the straight and setting out after the leader.
Despite needing most of the Flemington straight to get to Lethal Thoughts, Brosnan got the better of the debut winner late and was then able to hold off a late challenge by runner-up Anphina.
Brosnan holds a nomination for June’s Group 1 J.J. Atkins (1600m) at Eagle Farm, where he is a $21 chance with Ladbrokes.
This very race 12 months ago saw Blushing Tycoon prove too good, with that galloper subsequently running seventh in the Brisbane Group 1.
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