It’s Somewhat has survived a late charge from Excess Knowledge and Dances On Stars to return to winning form in the Group 2 Ajax Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill Gardens this afternoon.
It’s Somewhat maintained to the line to win the Group 2 Ajax Stakes at Rosehill Gardens. Photo: Steve Hart
It’s Somewhat jumped from the barriers well and initially settled just off the pace of early leaders Casino Dancer, Good Project and Kool Kompany, but was pushed forward by in-form hoop Sam Clipperton at the bend and took up the running.
Hugging the rails rounding onto the final straight, the Dynaformer gelding kicked three lengths clear of his rivals and while tiring noticeably late, maintained well enough to post only his second race win in Australia.
John O’Shea was pleased with It’s Somewhat’s overall performance to win the Ajax Stakes and revealed a race like the Group 1 Doncaster Mile (1600m) may not be out of consideration this time in.
“When the race came out I had a look and thought to myself then he’s going to be able to roll across and get to the position that he did,” O’Shea said.
“He’s been racing very well in the summer with massive weights and was just looking for a bit of relief. He got it today and it was a good performance.”
Clipperton secured a race double after partnering Peeping to success in the Group 1 Coolmore Classic (1500m) this afternoon and was pleased with the feel offered up by It’s Somewhat in winning the Ajax Stakes.
“I didn’t do a lot of work to get where I did, but he did take a while to get there,” Clipperton said.
“I was always in a nice comfort zone but when Brenton and I did eventually cross we were able to control the race.
“That’s why I put the pressure on early because I knew he would control it. My horse is a really tough galloper, he builds and can sustain a run.
“It was a good, sharp 600m home, he was very good to the line and it was a very impressive win.”
Arguably the run of the race, the Gai Waterhouse-trained Excess Knowledge savaged the line for second, first-up after finishing seventh in the Melbourne Cup.
It’s Somewhat began his racing career under the guidance of notable British trainer Mark Johnston and has posted four wins and seven minors through his 21 competitive starts so date.
