Trainer John Leek said the effort of Showmanship (NZ) (Showcasing) to finish fourth in the Listed Doveton Stakes (1200m) was as good as any horse he has had.
Leek said he was amazed by Showmanship’s performance, beaten a half-length by Ghaanati after being 15 lengths off the lead early in the straight.
It was Showmanship’s first run for him and his first in 15 months. It was only the 12th race in his career, of which he has won eight including the Gr.3 Show County at Randwick.
“It’s one of the best runs I’ve had out of a horse, possibly the best,” Leek said.
“I told Jamie Mott he’s touched my heart. He’s a beautiful horse and Jamie said he’s one of the nicest horses he’s ever ridden.”
Leek said he didn’t know how Showmanship would go before the race.
“I said to Jamie – it’s something I’ve not said before – that I’ve got no idea about how he’s going to go. I said to go quiet early and then get him to the outside.”
Leek said the effort showcased Showmanship’s great talent.
“His form was amazing as a younger horse,” he said. “What a heart he’s got. All you can do is get them fit as he’s got a bit of wear and tear.”
Leek said he had got Showmanship fit through a combination of water walking, swimming and hill work without him doing fast gallops.
Leek said Showmanship, provided he raced on a wet track, could still win a major race over 1600 metres, a distance he had never raced over.
Bred by Haunui Farm, Showmanship was sold through their 2017 New Zealand Bloodstock Select yearling draft to bloodstock agent John Chalmers for $145,000.
