Classic Potential for New Pierro Stakes-Winner

Pierro posted a new stakes-winner on Saturday in New Zealand with talented gelding Lord Cosmos (2g Pierro x Cosmic Powers , by Not a Single Doubt) capturing the Listed Waikato Equine Veterinary Centre Stakes (1200m) at Te Rapa.

The Mark Walker-trained runner had run home strongly to finish runner-up behind Charmario at the same venue last weekend and replicated his effort from that day with another eye-catching performance.

He charged home from last for rider Sam Weatherley, who took the mount with regular pilot Opie Bosson riding in Queensland at present.

Weatherley let proceedings unfold in front of him as pacemakers Westwood and Mazzolino disputed a steady speed in front and powered home late to win by half a length.

Walker, who is in Queensland campaigning a team for Te Akau Racing was rapt to see the son of Pierro strike stakes success.

“He is a horse we have a lot of time for and he has just needed a little time to mature,” Walker said.

“I thought the Te Rapa track was superbly presented today as it was fair for all horses and he was able to run his race from the back and be too good over the closing stages.

“He is a horse who is going to keep getting better with age as he is a real athlete and just needs to strengthen even further.

“We may pop him out for a month or so now while the weather is warm and if he comes back like I think he will then he could well be a classic contender next season.”

Lord Cosmos was purchased by Te Akau principal David Ellis out of Hallmark Stud’s New Zealand Bloodstock Book 1 Yearling Sale draft for $190,000 and has two wins and two seconds from just five starts.

He is the first winner for Not a Single Doubt mare Cosmic Powers, who comes from the family of stakes-winners Keep the Faith and Pistols.

Lord Cosmos was bred by Greg and Donna Kolivos of Lightning Thoroughbreds and was pinhooked originally from the Newgate Consignment at the Magic Millions National Weanling Sale for $140,000.

Lord Cosmos is the 29th stakes-winner for Golden Slipper winning sire Pierro.