Auric Stable’s latest home-bred Just Because (NZ) (Swiss Ace) made a flying start to his Singapore racing career with a convincing first-up victory on Saturday.
After two barrier trials where the Shane Baertschiger-trained newcomer’s getaways were tardy, he showed a much edgier side in the $75,000 Restricted Maiden race over the Polytrack 1200m.
Jumping smartly from his handy barrier, the three-year-old son of Swiss Ace was placed by Danny Beasley in a striking position off the girth of stablemate Dabble (NZ) (Pure Champion), who was overracing upfront.
The race was unfolding towards a winning debut for Just Because and he had 1 ¼ lengths to spare from Super Incredible (Deep Field) with Baertschiger’s third runner Big Green Hat (Odyssey Moon) showed his winning turn wasn’t far off with a solid third another half-length away.
Baertschiger was obviously pleased he had prepared another debut winner racing in the iconic red and yellow band and armbands, of Auric Stable boss Jerry Sung.
“Jerry’s still active in breeding with his two broodmares Just Nini and Jelly Bean. I trained Jelly Bean to four wins here while Bruce Marsh had Just Nini,” said Baertschiger.
“This one (Just Because) is a half-brother to Maceo (two wins) as they’re both out of Just Nini. He’s much bigger and stronger than Maceo.
“Jerry has his mares in Kilmore Farm in New Zealand, and whenever he needs to find a stallion to serve his mares, I’ll discuss with him and advise him.
“For example, I suggested he sent Just Nini to Swiss Ace as they go well here at Kranji.
“We knew Just Because had ability, but his barrier manners needed to be worked on. He missed the start at his first trial by five lengths and failed the test.
“At his second trial on Tuesday, he was better even if he was still a length slow, but today, he began well.
“I just told Danny to ride him where he wanted. Dabble went too hard, I’ll take the blinkers off at his next start, but the strong pace worked out well for the winner.”
