The Ciaron Maher stable is looking towards the spring riches with Scarole, following the colt’s maiden victory at Caulfield Heath.
The win in the Sportsbet Playbook Plate (1500m) on Wednesday came at Scarole’s fourth career start, with the colt expected to be extended further in trip over the coming weeks.
Ridden by Thomas Stockdale, Scarole ($4) recorded a comfortable 3-¼ length win from Corviglia ($8.5), with Melbourne Boy ($6.50) a length further back in third.
Jack Turnbull, the National Assistant Trainer for Ciaron Maher Racing, mentioned that Scarole had undergone a change of bit for Wednesday’s race.
Turnbull explained that the colt possesses a ‘light mouth’ and can overreact when challenged by the rider.
“He doesn’t pull, he’s just very light in the mouth and can be sensitive,” Turnbull said. “He was seen to by the dentist and we went from a ring-bit to a D-bit today.”
“He was better, but he still has improvement to come, but he’s improved off his last run. He got a couple of cute sectionals, but when they ramped it up, he responded.”
“He’s not slow this horse, but if he has the ability to stay on, we might have some fun, especially at this time of year. We would like to get him up in trip. He’s ticked this box and it sets him up.”
A son of Ole Kirk, Turnbull did not commit to how far Scarole might be extended in distance.
He suggested that the Super Impose Stakes (1800m) at Flemington on October 3rd is a probable next target, with the traditional lead-up races to the Victoria Derby (2500m) at Flemington late next month to be considered.
“We’ll probably be looking at the Derby trials, and those sorts of thing,” Turnbull stated. “The Super Impose at Flemington, I would say that would be earmarked, along with the guy that ran third, Melbourne Boy. Both have staying written all over them.
“Scarole has a bit more speed, is a little more hyperactive, but they’re nice animals, up-and-coming and they’re in at the right time of year.”
With Scarole’s performance, trainers are considering the Super Impose Stakes and other Derby trials, presenting opportunities for racing odds.
