Stratum Gives Damien First Metro Success

Returning from a 10 month suspension, champion jockey Damien Oliver was back in the winner’s circle at Moonee Valley on Saturday after partnering the Gai Waterhouse trained three year-old Divine Calling to an easy victory.

A dashing grey son of Stratum, Divine Calling was having his second run back from a spell following a first up fifth behind Fast ‘n’ Rocking in the Group III MRC McNeil Stakes.

Divine Calling dashed away at the finish to win the 1500 metre contest by a dominant two lengths under 59 kg, his overall record now two wins and two seconds from six starts with prizemoney topping $114,000.

“He worked really well last Saturday, so I suggested this race to Gai,” said Damien Oliver.

“I think he’ll run a lot further, although he doesn’t have the pedigree for it, but he’s so relaxed.”

A $210,000 Magic Millions purchase for Gai Waterhouse and James Harron Bloodstock from the Baramul Stud draft, Divine Calling is from Group II winner Rubicall, so is bred to be above average.