New Zealand-bred four-year-old Double Up gave further proof that he will develop into a strong performer in better company when he scored an easy victory in the 2130m Better Your Bet With TABtouch Pace at Gloucester Park on Friday night.
After racing without cover for the first 650m, Double Up, the $1.30 favourite, gave a splendid frontrunning performance to win by one and a half lengths from the $8.50 second fancy Alta Intrigue, who finished solidly from eighth at the bell. The winner was not fully extended and rated 1.56.5.
Double Up, prepared by star trainers Greg and Skye Bond and handled by outstanding reinsman Ryan Warwick, won twice from 14 starts in New Zealand before impressing with six wins and a third placing from seven starts in Western Australia to take his career record to 21 starts for eight wins, six placings and $55,689.
The American Ideal gelding is the second foal out of Vegas Delight, who raced 36 times for five wins, 14 placings and $48,071 in stakes. Vegas Delight is a half-sister to Lightning Ridge, who earned $286,552 from 28 wins and 31 placings from 128 starts.
by Ken Casellas