In a commanding performance in Saturday’s Listed Matamata Cup (1600m), Legarto overcame last week’s weather challenges and is now eyeing Sydney.
Trained by Ken and Bev Kelso, the exceptional daughter of Proisir, a Group One winner on both sides of the Tasman last season, including the Australian Guineas, showcased her prowess once again.
Despite being a hot favourite for the Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) at Hastings, Legarto was scratched due to relentless rain and unfavourable track conditions.
The Kelso’s recalibrated their strategy, opting for the Matamata Cup a week later, where Legarto, aided by weight relief, emerged as the -166.67 favorite.
Jockey Ryan Elliot strategically positioned Legarto, keeping her away from the rail to avoid traffic trouble.
With a well-timed move down the side of the track, Legarto surged alongside the front-runner La Crique, ultimately winning by three-quarters of a length from Aquacade.
“I just told Ryan to ride her like the best horse in the race – give her clear air and she’ll do the rest, “said co-trainer Ken Kelso.
“He gave her plenty of room, got her into the clear and it was very pleasing.
“She’s an excitement machine, and it’s a privilege to train her for nice people…It’s a big thrill for both of us.
“We’ll keep going for a while yet when we have a horse like her.”
Looking ahead, the Kelso’s are targeting the A$10 million Golden Eagle (1500m) on November 4.
Legarto’s impressive victory has elevated her status, and online betting sites now rate her as a +500 chance for the Golden Eagle.
Ryan Elliot, confident in Legarto’s abilities, remarked, “Just wait until she hits a good track. Watch out, Aussie.”
“We’ve got a month now between this race and the Golden Eagle, so we’ll probably give her an exhibition gallop or a trial or something in between,” revealed Ken Kelso.
“We’re pretty well on track again now, I think.”
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