More Success for Stratum Star

High class four year-old Stratum entire Stratum Star has been in hot form this spring and claimed another major victory at Caulfield on Saturday when taking out the Group III MRC David Jones Cup.

Prepared by Darren Weir, Stratum Star won the Group I MRC Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes last month and was third in the Group I MRC Toorak Handicap last Saturday, so was burdened with 59 kg for this 2000 metre assignment.

He relished the task, travelling strongly for Mark Zahra before powering to the line to win by a length as favourite.

“The back-up wasn’t a problem,” said Darren Weir.

“He had a terrific week at the beach and looked happy in the yard.

“The breaks came his way and he was strong to the line.

“The Mackinnon (2000m Group I at Flemington, Oct 31) has been our goal since his last start and I was keen to give him a run at 2000 to toughen him up.”

A $165,000 Magic Millions purchase for Rick Hore-Lacy, who prepared him for his first four starts,
Stratum Star has the overall record of five wins and 10 placings from 20 starts with prizemoney topping $770,000.

Bred and offered for sale by Widden Stud, , who retain a share in his ownership, Stratum Star is the first foal of Pins mare Purely Spectacular, a full sister to stakes-winner Raid from the family of champion mare Emancipation.

Purely Spectacular is also the dam of stakes-placed three year-old filly Serenade by Star Witness and has a two year-old filly and another yearling filly, both by Star Witness to follow.

She was covered last spring by Stratum, who stands at Widden Stud at a fee of $33,000.