Hugh Bowman’s experience has been the difference at Doomben this afternoon and the leading Sydney hoop has partnered Ruthven to a dominant win in the Group 1 Queensland Derby (2200m).
Jumping from the gates well, Bowman allowed Ruthven to stride forward and immediately take up the running; leading the classy field of three-year-old stayers past the post the first time alongside the lines of Wu Gok and Gharban.
Settling into a good rhythm and dropping back to sit behind Wu Gok across the back straight, Bowman allowed the horse plenty of time before peeling out and upping the tempo; ensuring that the Queensland Derby field would have something to chase upon arriving in the final straight.
Skipping three lengths clear of his rivals upon straightening, the Domesday gelding continued to find to the line; breaking through for a maiden win at the highest level with complete ease ahead of Rockstar Rebel and the Queensland Derby field’s sole filly; Ana Royale.
Jockey Hugh Bowman claimed his third win on 2017 Stradbroke Handicap Day aboard Ruthven in the Queensland Derby and was thrilled with the horse dominant performance.
“It was an amazing win,” Bowman said after the race.
“I just took top confidence into his staying ability and took a lot of confidence out of riding him on Tuesday morning.
“I knew that he had a strong will and he’s been known to be a little bit immature, letting horses passing him and then wanting to chase again.
“Today, I just tried to keep his mind on the job and didn’t he deliver in fine style.”
Ruthven returned to the races for a credible fifth in the Group 2 Autumn Stakes (1300m) at Caulfield in February and finished second in his next two starts, including the Group 2 Tulloch Stakes (2040m) before running fourth in the Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m0.
Placing second in the Vobis Gold Heath (2000m) on April 22nd, the three-year-olds appeared to have the Group 1 South Australian Derby (2500m) won on May 13th, but was beaten in the final strides of the race by Volatile Mix, who could only manage a mid-pack finish this afternoon.
Rockstar Rebel produced a career-best performance to run on for second, while Ana Royale capped her outstanding preparation with a commendable third; backing-up from last weekend’s Group 1 Queensland Oaks.