Despite being a full brother to an Australian Derby winner, debutant Savagram has demonstrated a stylish turn of foot over a sprint distance at Canterbury, securing his place on Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott’s spring carnival roster.
By the highly regarded sire Savabeel, Savagram is the younger sibling of stablemate Major Beel, the 2023 Derby winner. Bott believes Savagram possesses significant talent.
“He’s probably a stronger type than Major Beel,” Bott commented. “Maybe he’s got that little bit more acceleration and speed so whether that opens up a few more options for him. He quickened up nicely and that what’s he always shown. He’s got a bit of class for a horse that has got a bit of stamina. He’s got speed and a turn of foot to go with it.”
Guided by jockey Tim Clark, Savagram ($2.70) took an immediate lead and maintained it, finding another burst of speed on the turn to achieve a convincing 1-1/2 length victory over Cantero ($9). Threads ($6.50) finished a further 1-3/4 lengths back in third position in the Captivant @ Vinery Stud Handicap over 1200 metres.
Bott has not yet finalised a campaign for the winner, but he suggested that the Group 1 Spring Champion Stakes (2000m) at Randwick in October would be an ideal race.
“No specific target yet, but all those three-year-old races will be in contention,” he stated. “I do think he’ll be of that quality. We could try to take him through to a Spring Champion, they’d be lovely races for him.”
Michael Freedman also presented a promising three-year-old, Wanda’s Spark ($2.70), who led from start to finish to defeat Affari ($13) in the TAB Handicap (1200m), indicating she too could be aimed at stronger contests.
Ben Duckworth, representing Freedman’s stable, expressed confidence in the filly’s potential and highlighted the Group 2 Furious Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on September 5, the second event in the Princess Series, as a possible target.
“We were confident bringing her here today that she could execute and perform well,” Duckworth said. “Assuming she pulls up well, a race like the Furious Stakes in a couple of weeks’ time could be an option for her. We’ll get her home and see how she gets through the run.”
With Savagram showing such promise for the Spring Champion Stakes, explore the top Australian betting sites for the best racing odds.
