Second Group One For Sequalo
Good things come to those who wait.
Just ask trainer Tony Gollan and the very happy and proud connections of Spirit Of Boom – second Group One winner for our wonderful stallion Sequalo.
Previously contesting no less than 14 Group One races, the ultra-consistent Spirit Of Boom had been placed at the elite level on four occasions including game seconds in the Newmarket Handicap and the Oakleigh Plate over the last few weeks.
Not always having the best of luck, Spirit Of Boom however had things go his way in the William Reid Stakes at Moonee Valley on Friday night – and, as Gollan said “it was a much deserved win.”
“He has given us such a great ride for such a long time,” he said – referring to the fact that Spirit Of Boom has been tough and durable; trademarks of the Sequalo breed.
“He has been racing for many seasons and he is enjoying it – he is a very tough stallion.”
Winning a Magic Millions two-year-old maiden back in January 2010, Spirit Of Boom has won races every year since, his impressive tally standing at eight victories and 18 placings from 48 starts.
A $90,000 purchase at the 2009 Magic Millions QTIS 600 Sale with his breeders Eureka Stud staying in, Spirit Of Boom has won over 20 times that amount – over $1.85 million making his Sequalo’s biggest prize money earner.
His second Group One winner alongside Star Shiraz (QTC Sires’ Produce Stakes), Spirit Of Boom is one of just four foals produced by the stakes place triple city winner Temple Spirit who sadly died young.
She made her mark though – Spirit Of Boom her second foal whilst fellow Group One winner Temple Of Boom, also trained by Gollan, her first.
The win was a career highlight for another Queenslander in jockey Michael Rodd – “this just means so much to me,” he enthused, adding that “I have known Tony since I was a kid.”
“This is just a fantastic feeling,” he continued, proud of the way in which Spirit Of Boom found the line.
“I got him into a good position and he was able to launch.”
Hopefully there is still plenty to come for Spirit Of Boom who heads to the T.J Smith in Sydney before retiring to stud after a crack at the Stradbroke Handicap.
Part owner/breeder Scott McAlpine was understandably delighted - "he is a six-year-old stallion racing in the best form of his life," he said, adding that after such a tight photo finish he could "hardly believe this has happened!"
The win was also a massive thrill for everyone at Lyndhurst where Sequalo has stood since 1997. Being prepared for his 18th season at stud this spring, he continues to thrive and he covered a strong book of 74 mares last year.
“He has been a great stallion for a long time,” Tony Gollan said – and we agree!
