Clarry Conners, a prominent figure in the world of horse racing, expressed his relief as his talented four-year-old, Peace Officer, triumphed at Randwick on Saturday, securing jockey Aaron Bullock a back-to-back victory.
The son of Iffraaj entered the race as the +260 favourite with horse racing betting sites, enduring a challenging battle down the straight, marked by some bumping with rivals.
However, he eventually found a clear path and surged ahead, winning by just over a length from the consistently competitive Satness.
Conners, a Hall of Fame trainer, commented, “We were in trouble for a little while, and it was a bit hard to see on the TV, but he won. That’s all we can do.”
Conners holds Peace Officer in high regard and even contemplated the possibility of aiming for the prestigious Golden Eagle (1500m) at one point.
He stated, “He’s a very good horse, I think. But now we will have to aim higher and see what we can do. I am waiting to get the horse over a mile.
“He will be a different horse, honestly. I am sure he wants further. Have a look at his form. He is very consistent and is a lovely horse to train.”
With this victory, Peace Officer has now won four of his 12 starts, including three of his past four outings, which also includes a recent Midway win at Rosehill.
Peace Officer, bred by Jamieson Park, is one of three winners from the mare Coyote Miss, sired by Commands.
Conners openly admitted that he initially knew little about Iffraaj, the proven sire of Peace Officer, when he purchased the yearling for A$90,000 at the Sydney Classic Sale. However, he has since become well-versed in the stallion’s impressive pedigree and achievements.
“He was some distance away when I first caught sight of him,” Conners recalled.
“I quickly moved closer and could see he had great presence. He looked more mature than most yearlings, moved beautifully, and had a commanding head.
“I don’t mind admitting I knew little about the colt’s sire Iffraaj and was unfamiliar with his distaff side.
“I liked the fact that his dam Coyote Miss was by the very good sire Commands, while his second dam Miss Alabama was by Woodman and had left a number of winners.”
Several clients were equally impressed with Peace Officer, and a syndicate was formed to race him, bringing together both existing and new supporters of the talented gelding.
Conners summarized the journey, stating, “Several existing clients liked him as much as I did, and a few new ones came on board as well. We soon had a lovely little syndicate together to race him as Peace Officer.”
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