Vinery Stud unveiled a colt with untapped potential when Exceedance scored a breathtaking victory at Wyong on Thursday.
The Exceed And Excel 2yo was facing the starter for the first time and looked right of contention on the corner – at least 8 lengths from tearaway leader Blazing Miss in the Toukley Golf Club Maiden (1100m).
The course broadcaster didn’t give Exceedance any hope before the Team Hawkes youngster launched a stunning finish under Tommy Berry. “He’s come from a minute back and is rocketing home,” the caller cried. “How about that for a win on debut.”
Vinery bought Exceedance for $180,000 at the 2018 Inglis Easter Yearling Sale with a syndicate that includes industry leaders Rupert Legh, Neil Werrett, Encompass Bloodstock, Phoenix Thoroughbreds and Glenlogan Park.
He’s the first live foal of NZ-bred mare Bonnie Mac (Thorn Park) who won at Trentham and Matamata for trainer Mike Moroney. She was more than effective after transferring to his Melbourne yard winning the Proud Miss Stakes LR at Morphettville.
“Exceedance certainly looks an exciting prospect,” Vinery Stud’s Bloodstock Manager Adam White said. “We’ve had a lot of luck with Exceed And Excel colts like Headwater out of the Sydney Easter Sale.
“Team Hawkes have always had a high opinion of Exceedance and it’s nice to see all that promise rising to the surface. We also have several other 2yo colts like Reloaded and Born A Warrior showing a lot of talent.”
Co-trainer Michael Hawkes said the win was even better than it appeared because he wasn’t suited around the tight Wyong track. “I told Tommy to have him where he was comfortable. I was a bit worried when he got back but I knew the leader would give him something to chase.
“He really knuckled down and is definitely a lovely colt going forward. There’s a lot of good people in this horse. They’ve been very patient and now they’re starting to get the rewards.”
Watch Exceedance win here
