THERE was no more fitting winner of last night’s Onemorenomore First Crop Plate (1200m) than More Than Brave, a daughter of associate sire and Vinery team captain More Than Ready.
The John O’Shea-trained debutante dwelt at the start but quickly mustered pace from her inside alley to lead a quality field turning for home.
Despite her early work, More Than Brave booted clear off the bend racing away from her rivals to score an emphatic win.
“I couldn’t believe how well she was travelling into the straight, her ears were pricking the whole race so she was doing it reasonably easy so she’s got a bright future,” winning jockey James McDonald said.
“It was a good win tonight and hopefully she’ll get a few more.”
Offered on account of the famous Segenhoe, More Than Brave was bought for $300,000 by John O’Shea Bloodstock at the 2011 Inglis Australian Yearling Sale.
Her dam, Brave Choice, is a half-sister to multiple stakeswinner Brave Prince and Valourina who herself delivered Timbourina, Media and Cardinal Virtue.
More Than Brave’s grand-dam, Bravery, managed to capture the rare QTC Queensland Oaks/Derby.
“She’s been a quality filly from day dot,” O’Shea Racing foreman Bryce Heys told TVN.
“It was appeared that she had ability and might feature as a two-year-old at the right time of the year bit maturity issues detracted from her getting to the racetrack but she had two solid trials (before tonight) and her work at home has been sublime.
“I just want to thank Mr Ron Finemore and Mr John Lever, they have been tremendous supports of our stable and they’ve got a quality filly on their hands and it’s just reward for them.’’
