Shamardal's progressive son Shamoline Warrior further established himself as a leading contender for this year’s Victorian Derby on 17 October with a commanding win in the G3 Norman Robinson Stakes at Caulfield.
Settled towards the rear of the field under Michael Rodd, Mark Kavanagh's charge was always travelling well and progressing around the turn, took the lead at the top of the straight. With his rivals unable to match his impressive acceleration, Shamoline Warrior (pictured, by Bronwen Healy) moved clear and won the 2000m content by a length and a half.
Shamoline Warrior certainly has the pedigree to take the Derby, being a half-brother to last year’s winner Rebel Raider who is by fellow Darley stallion Reset. They were bred by Toorak Park Stud and are from the Dehere mare Picholine who also has a two-year-old filly by Exceed And Excel.
Shamardal also recorded two new Black type performers on Saturday when three-year-old colt Weasley finished second in the Listed Jayco Stakes at Caulfield, whilst Happy Hippy took the same slot in the Listed Brian Crowley Stakes at Randwick.
Also on Saturday, First Command (Commands) earned himself a step up to G1 level when beating a quality field to take the G2 Caulfield Sprint. The Lee Freedman-trained gelding has now won seven times from nine starts and has earned over $355,000. He will now be aimed at the Salinger Stakes or the Patinack Farm Classic.
Meanwhile at Morphettville, Exceed And Excel's four-year-old daughter Very Discreet made it two Stakes wins in a row, landing the Listed Durbridge Stakes.
