Promising galloper Pittsburgh Pirate ($7) recorded his maiden win with a strong performance at Swan Hill on Monday. The Pierro gelding was third-up and fitter for a pair of sound efforts this preparation, and improved sharply with the addition of blinkers for the first time. Jockey Neil Farley, who has ridden the four-year-old in all three starts this campaign, began well from an inside draw and settled fourth on the rail throughout the run. The Irish hoop came away from the fence turning for home, presenting three-wide upon straightening and setting out to chase Easy Turn ($4.60) who tried to kick clear. Pittsburgh Pirate drew level inside the 300-metre mark and took over soon after, opening up a commanding lead and winning softly on the line by two-and-a-half lengths. Easy Turn finished runner-up, with a further gap of four lengths back to the third-placed runner. “When I went for him, he really kicked and gave me a sharp response”, Farley said. “The blinkers have really sharpened him up. I’m pretty sure he’s going to get out over further as well”.
Henry was pleased with how his galloper handled the firm Swan Hill surface. “I was pretty confident this morning, but when I saw how firm it was – knowing he’s a horse that does feel his knees a little bit – I was a little bit apprehensive. But to his credit, he didn’t flinch”.
Henry noted the lack of upcoming options over 2000-metres, and indicated that his gelding would likely stay at a mile next start before stepping up in trip. “As they get out in distance, the races get a little bit weaker. He’s the sort of horse who can win a few more”.
Pittsburgh Pirate ‘s maiden win came at his eighth race start, and on the strengths of Monday’s success, there are more wins to come this preparation.