Vin Santo has continued his excellent start under trainer Renita Beaton, producing a determined performance to finish second in the Gibson Architects Benchmark 65 Handicap at Ipswich on Wednesday, 2 September.
Vin Santo jumped well from the gates but had to do some early work before settling one off the fence, outside the race leader. Jockey Tiff Brooker, who rode him to victory at his previous start, reported that once he found his position he relaxed nicely and travelled well.
Approaching the home turn, Vin Santo was pushed wider as the horse inside him moved away from the fence. This opened up a run on the inside for eventual winner Fireforce, who had enjoyed an economical trip along the rail throughout the race.
Vin Santo continued to fight strongly down the straight and, despite coming under pressure from a line of horses over the final 100 metres, found another gear approaching the finish. He hit the line with plenty of intent to secure second, finishing just 0.87 of a length behind Fireforce.
It was another fantastic effort from Vin Santo, with Renita reporting that he has pulled up well following the run.
With a first and second placing from his first two starts this preparation for Kiwi-born trainer Renita Beaton, Vin Santo has made an exciting return to racing. He should take further improvement from this strong Ipswich performance and will head into his next start fitter again.
Keep an eye out for his next assignment as this promising preparation continues.
