After an enforced pause because of the global pandemic, China Horse Club’s European racing arm has capitalized with the return to racing. The stable has struck with three quick wins, driving a tally of five winners in eight days for CHC internationally.
The triumph of determined stayer Bondi Sands at Newmarket (UK) on Friday afternoon followed a run of wins by Oregon (Australia), Pawpaw (UK), Quantico (Australia) and Cognac (UK). The mile and a half contest (2400m) was the third run this year for Bondi Sands and clearly his most impressive to date.
Bondi Sands, a son of champion Australia, posted a comfortable two length win on the line in what was his maiden win in six career starts. Gelding has made a significant difference to the focus of the three-year-old and was instrumental in his success on this occasion.
Champion horse, Australia
This was a competitive affair for a small field and Bondi Sands was had to show grit to prevail. Inside the final two furlongs the gelding had been headed and was under a long drive, but jockey P. J. McDonald was switched hands with his whip and was able to get the best out of his mount with Bondi Sands staying on strongest and running through the line in good style.
“This was a really game performance from Bondi Sands to win at Newmarket. It was a plan well executed,” said CHC’s Matt Houldworth.
“[Bondi Sands] travelled well and on the pace throughout and he’s lasted out really well and outstayed his rivals. He’s dug deep and looks like he’s progressing well. Gelding has been the making of him and it’s great to see him concentrating on the job in hand.”
Bondi Sands was co-bred by CHC and traces back to a quality French family that includes former crack G1 miler Johan Quatz. Bondi Sands’ dam, Thai Haku, was sold in 2017 for €250,000.
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