BIG BROWN two year old Archer Hill lived up to the hype with a dominant debut victory over 1700m on the turf of Saratoga.
Starting a firm favourite at 5-2, Archer Hill followed in his freshman sire’s footsteps with an impressive debut over the Saratoga turf. Whilst Big Brown won his first start over 1700m on the same course by over 11 lengths, Archer Hill was no less impressive putting his 9 rivals to the sword with a breath taking turn of foot on the final turn.
Bumped coming out of the gate, the $150,000 Fasig Tipton yearling purchase (pictured) bided his time towards the back half of the field upon settling. Jockey Alex Solis gave him some rein coming to the turn and Archer Hill unleashed a powerful rally four or five wide around the home bend and kept plugging away in the stretch to win comfortably by 1 1/2 lengths.
Watch the VIDEO here – courtesy of TDN and Taylor Made.
Notacatbutallama (Harlan’s Holiday) grabbed second late from Holy Endeavor (Noble Causeway).
Archer Hill becomes the fourth individual winner and second on the turf for Three Chimneys and Vinery resident Big Brown.
Unfortunately Big Brown will not shuttle to Vinery this season having sustained a laceration to a hind leg which, although not structurally serious, did become infected, delaying the healing process.
Veterinary advice has recommended against shuttling the Stallion, as the extensive travel and quarantine process would not be conducive to his recovery. Big Brown will return to Vinery in 2013 and his first crop yearlings will be offered for sale early next season.
It is a blow to his supporter’s as Big Brown’s pedigree looks even more impressive following the Stallion’s half-brother Alfoso de Sousa maiden victory in Ireland last week.
Alfoso de Sousa is being aimed at the upcoming Group 1 Phoenix Stakes (1200m) after winning his 9-lens romp at Leopardstown. Meanwhile another half sibling, Black Tunic will return to racing next week in the States and looks just as impressive in her workouts.
