Ramsden Dream not an illusion

Value bet Apollo Ace wins at 6-1.


Joey Ramsden looks to have a few decent juveniles this term, and you can add Minnesota Dream to that list.

The Visionaire colt was badly let at the start in the opening event at Kenilworth on Saturday, a Maiden Juvenile Plate over 1000m.

He lost three lengths according to the stipes report, but was then also slow into stride, so effectively immediately had about double that to make up.

But S’manga Khumalo wisely allowed him to find his feet be-fore asking for an effort, and he quickened smartly to win by 0.75 lengths.

His trainer described him as “a very nice horse. It’s been a long time since I saw something get left like that on debut and still win”.

Ramsden has only sent out four juveniles this term, and this was his second winner, after Double Alliance also won smartly on debut in January.

The stable completed a smart double in Race 5 over 1000m, when Computaform value bet Apollo Ace won going away at 6-1 in his first run after being gelded.

Another to win well a er the unkindest cut was Swift Surprise in Race 4.

Trainer Justin Snaith’s charge surged clear in the la er stages to win a Maiden Plate over 1600m by 1.25 lengths.

“He’s improved with gelding, and will keep improving. The further he goes the be er, and there’s plenty to look forward to,” said Richard Fourie post-race.

Chris Snaith revealed that there had been a lot of confidence.

“We fancied him quite strongly today. He won a good race and he won’t stop here” was his summation.

Snaith and Fourie had another noteworthy winner in the last race.

Star Of Silver had made all easily in winning what looked a weak maiden, and did so again under a hands and heels ride at FM 72 Handicap level. She should pay to follow.

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