All-Star plan for Pericles
Godolphin’s Andy Makiv said a gut feeling to send Pericles to Bjorn Baker was vindicated after the gelding finally broke through for a maiden Group 1 win in the Futurity Stakes at Caulfield.
The son of Street Boss will likely meet fellow Godolphin representative Tom Kitten (Harry Angel), now prepared by Sam and Anthony Freedman, in the All-Star Mile (Gr 1, 1600m) at Flemington on March 7.
“I had a feeling he’d suit Bjorn. I just loved what Bjorn had done with that Vancouver horse [Overpass] he’s got and travelled around,” Makiv said.
“In fairness, I thought he might be a horse for Western Australia for Bjorn to take because he’s had a great record over there and since Bjorn’s had him, he said, ‘don’t worry about WA, worry about Melbourne and Sydney.’”
Makiv admitted Pericles had been frustrating at the elite level, with four seconds and two thirds prior to his breakthrough.
“He’s been a fabulous horse. He’s a homebred off Northwood Park in Seymour by our fantastic stallion Street Boss, so for him to achieve Group 1 glory is wonderful for so many people. He’s earned near on $7 million in prize-money.”
The race also produced a masterclass from Craig Williams, who claimed his third straight Futurity and sixth overall – just two shy of the legendary Roy Higgins’ record of eight.
With Mr Brightside sidelined, Williams sought out the Pericles ride and later dedicated the victory to his father Alan on his 86th birthday.