Yourein successful in Great Northern Guineas Prelude

Having only his fifth start, the John Sargent-trained Yourein (Reset) improved from a last start third behind Shamardal filly Shamabelle to score a dominant two-and-a-half length victory in the Listed Great Northern Guineas Prelude at Ellerslie, New Zealand, on December 12.

Jumping to the 2100m for the first time, the Leith Innes-ridden gelding travelled just off the pace before being pulled out into clear going to make his run as the field headed for home. Showing superior staying prowess, Yourein worked home over the top of his rivals for a very good win. Appreciating the distance rise, the gelding’s long term plan is the 2011 G1 New Zealand Derby in March.

"He's a nice staying type - he won very well today so looks like he's going to give us another chance in the Derby, “ enthused part-owner Peter Walker after the victory.

Bred by Mr D Flower, Yourein was a weanling graduate of the Magic Millions sale before being sold as a yearling through the New Zealand Premier yearling sale ring, realising $140,000 for connections. Out of the Stakes-placed Celtic Swing mare It’s You, a half-sister to Stakes performers Honest Politician, Pacino and Ipioga, Yourein’s pedigree suggest that a Derby distance is well within his grasp.

The eighth Stakes winner for his unbeaten, dual G1-winning sire Reset, Yourein is one of five Stakes winners this season which includes G2 winners Avienus, Well Rounded and Set For Fame, as well as Rebel Raider, a dual G1 winner during his Classic season.