G1 Epsom Next for Siege of Quebec
A $1.2 million Inglis Easter Yearling purchase in 2016 that was then re-offered earlier this year to make $1million at the Inglis Chairman’s Sale, talented stallion Siege of Quebec (4h Fastnet Rock x Rose of Cimmaron, by Bite the Bullet) claimed his first stakes win at Randwick on Saturday with a fast finishing victory in the Group III ATC Bill Ritchie Stakes.
Trained by Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott, Siege of Quebec showed good potential last season at three and ended his season with a fifth in the Group I ATC Randwick Guineas behind Kementari.
He resumed for his new ownership group headed by Aquis Farm in the Group III ATC Show County Stakes last month to finish second before failing at his next start last Saturday on a heavy track.
Back on a good surface for this 1400 metre contest, Siege of Quebec charged home with a late rush to nail the gallant Pierata (4h Pierro x November Flight, by Flying Spur) right on the line to win by a short head in race record time with Tim Clark on board.
“He has been flying, didn’t handle the wet last week, this looked a suitable race for him down in the weights,” Clark said.
“Had a nice run and really knuckled down that last 50m and stuck his head out.”
The 140th stakes-winner for champion sire Fastnet Rock, Siege of Quebec has the overall record of four wins and three placings from 10 starts with prizemoney topping $370,000.
The quick seven day back-up was never an issue according to his co-trainer Adrian Bott.
"We didn't have any hesitation in bringing him here. He's a big tough colt and on Sunday and Monday didn't look to have taken any harm,” said Adrian Bott.
"The Epsom has always been the aim for him.
"It's great we have been able to get into the race. He can show us what he's made of."
The Group I ATC Epsom Handicap (1600m) on September 29 looks a perfect race for the stallion as he seeks to build his Black type record this season.
Siege of Quebec is a full brother to Magic Millions sale-topper Bull Point, who retired to Kingstar Stud in 2016 as a Group I placed Group III winner of over $550,000 in prizemoney.
Bred by Mrs Belinda Bateman, who retains a share in his ownership, Siege of Quebec was foaled and raised at Newgate and is one of three winners for Rose of Cimarron, a full sister to Group III winner Mica’s Pride, the dam of $7million earner Criterion as well as current Group I winner and million dollar earner Comin’ Through, who is also by Fastnet Rock.