Wyong trainer Kristen Buchanan and owner Bruce Mackenzie praised the Midway race concept after Oakfield Arrow returned to winning form at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday.
Oakfield Arrow stormed to victory to make it six Midway wins for Buchanan in the last twelve months. The Press Statement mare had disappointed in the Mother’s Gift at Grafton last month but appreciated a good barrier, better going and a great ride by Rachel King.
“The Midway race series has really helped lift our profile and get plenty more opportunities for the stable which is what it’s all about,” Buchanan said. “Thank goodness we got a lovely track today and Rachel gave her a soft run just behind the speed.
“Bruce also lets me do what I need to do. I looked after Oakfield Arrow and gave her three weeks between runs. She travelled super and was strong through the line. That was probably the best part of the race.”
Oakfield Arrow carried the Big V brand to her fourth victory and her first since a Rosehill Midway in January. She was a $170,000 graduate from the Vinery consignment to the 2019 Gold Coast Magic Millions Yearling Sale.
Oakfield Arrow has significant residual value for Mackenzie whose horses are all named after his Oakfield Farm property at Port Stephens where he was Mayor for many years. The 5yo mare is a half-sister to multiple Group 3 winner Winter Bride (Not A Single Doubt).
Their dam Amberino (Perugino) is owned by Vinery partner Steve McCann (Encompass International) and she has a new-season 2yo filly named Summer Bride (Press Statement) who was an $80,000 buy for Segenhoe Thoroughbreds at this year’s Inglis Classic Sale. Amberino also has a yearling colt from the first-crop of Vinery’s Group 1 winning sprinter Exceedance.
Like his Vinery counterpart Headwater, Press Statement is off to a strong start with six winners this season. He stands for an $8,800 (inc GST) service fee and for bookings or further information, please contact Adam White (0414 800 918) or Harry Roach (0401 970 006).
