Trainer Nigel BlackistonĀ has continued his good luck with New Zealand’s Cambridge Stud with Passione scoring at Caulfield.
Victory in the Royal Meeting Is All Class (1400m) on Saturday came at Passione’s second Australian start after crossing from New Zealand.
Blackiston pointed to the better prize money of offer in Australia for him getting the mare to train while he has hopes Passione may graduate to stakes company later in the spring, or next autumn.
Ridden by Craig Williamson, Passione (12) scored a long neck victory from Mrs Sippy ($26) with Starlite Scope ($21) a further one-and-a-quarter lengths away third.
PassioneĀ made her Australian debut at Sandown on July 6 where she finished midfield.
“I went to Sandown confident that she would run well but unfortunately, we drew a wide barrier, and she was trapped wide the whole way,” Blackiston said.
“Today, she had taken good benefit from thatĀ run,Ā and I came here confident, but notĀ overconfident.
“Special thanks to Cambridge Stud and their big support from Brendan and Jo LindsayĀ and alsoĀ theirĀ team headed by HenryĀ Plumptre.
“They’ve been very supportive over the last couple of years and it’s good to get a Saturday win.
“If she keeps on progressing, hopefully we get some black type further down the track.
“I think seven furlongs (1400m) to a mileĀ isĀ her best trip. She may stretch out a little bitĀ later on, but we’ll keep her nice and fresh and keep her happy.”
Blackiston said he had been lucky to receive some good mares from Cambridge Stud to train.
“Under My SpellĀ was Group placed and had a bit of luck, so hopefully this one can keep on doing it.” Blackiston said.
