The red-hot run of northern jumps jockey Shaun Phelan continued when he guided accomplished hurdler Kipkeino to a comfortable victory at Whanganui yesterday.
Phelan, who took out the Grand National Steeplechase on Upper Cut last weekend, was seen at his patient best as he lobbed along towards the rear ofthe field on Kipkeino throughout much of the race. With testing conditions underfoot, Phelan conserved plenty of energy on the 10-year-old gelding before making a sweeping run to challenge on the point of the home turn.
Relishing the deep footing Kipkeino cleared the two home straight fences in efficient fashion before dashing away to record a big victory from a gallant Thatz David.
Hamish McQuade has unwavering belief in Underthemoonlight's ability to foot it at the elite level and he's opened his wallet to back his judgment.
The confidence of the co-breeder and part-owner of the El Hermano mare, trained by his wife Karyn, was given a further boost on Saturday when she won the Gr.2 Lisa Chittick Foxbridge Plate at Te Rapa.
"After her work on Thursday I was so pleased that she was at $26 for the Tarzino - I was on that," McQuade said. Underthemoonlight has now been trimmed to $10 for the Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy in a fortnight's time at Hawke's Bay.
