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QLD Oaks Winner Scores North American Feature

23 April 2018

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A pair of ‘downunder’ gals has shone brightly across the weekend.

And on the biggest stage possible.

Shartin, a winner of the Queensland Oaks last year, led throughout to claim the US $373,000 Blue Chip Matchmaker Final at Yonkers Raceway in New York.

The Matchmaker is one of the biggest events for pacing mares in the world!

Shartin led throughout in the 1609m feature and rated 1:52.4 and scored by four lengths.

Formerly prepared by Dean Braun, the daughter of Tintin In America proved to be a decisive winner of the Oaks feature last season before being sold to North American clients.

Shartin also claimed the Tasmanian Oaks while being placed second behind The More The Better in the Queensland Derby.

Another highlight was a crushing victory over Jilliby Kung Fu at TABCORP Park, Melton back in June in a brilliant time of 1:52.5.

Braun bought the filly as an unraced commodity from Canterbury owner/trainer Grant Crabbe.

In 13 Australian starts, Shartin won 7 races while being placed second on a further 3 occasions while banking in excess of $105,000.

Now prepared by Jim King Jr, Shartin has won 8 of her 10 starts on North American soil.

Champion reinsman Tim Tetrick took the winning drive.

“It’s a great result, I’m thrilled for all involved with the mare and I always stated this was the best mare I’ve trained. I had Nike Franco and she also has done a tremendous job up there but this mare is still on the up.” Braun said.

The Victorian based conditioner is planning another Queensland winter carnival with the likes of boom pacer Cruz Bromac and some three-year-olds.

“Brisbane is definitely on the radar again, there are some nice races up there and we’ll sort out the team in the coming weeks.

“Cruz will be considered for the Sunshine Sprint and the Blacks A Fake, the cash bonuses also make appeal too. We’ll see how he handles his upcoming targets before making a firm decision.”

Braun was spotted in Christchurch recently scouting some likely prospects.

Meanwhile, speedy mare Firebby kicked off her North American campaign on a winning note when successful at the Meadowlands across the weekend.

The Courage Under Fire mare scored in 1:52.0 defeating Cousin Mary and Keystone Riptide.

Firebby was handled by Andrew McCarthy for Tahn Camilleri.

Previously prepared by Cristina Monte and Charlie Cini, the mare was sold to Camilleri who is campaigning the mare herself in North America.

Camilleri also has Brigadier Bronski in training in North America.

 


Chris Barsby | RQ Web News | April 23