Stratum, Sebring Go Close, But Not Quite

Leading sire Stratum had a good day on Saturday with a smart winner at Randwick in Gangster’s Choice and a strong run from three year-old colt Weinholt, who finished second in the Listed VRC Henry Bucks Stakes at Flemington.

A $100,000 purchase for Vin Cox Bloodstock from the Twin Palms Stud draft at the 2009 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale, the John O’Shea trained Gangster’s Choice appreciated a return to a dry track and produced his best to take the 1600 metre event by more than a length.

Gangster’s Choice has the handy record of six wins and six placings from 23 starts seconds with prizemoney topping $250,000.

Gangster’s Choice is the first winner for Brave Choice, a half-sister to Group I Brave Prince and stakes-winner Valourina, the dam of Group II winners Media and Timbourina.

The Peter Moody trained Weinholt is entered for the Group I MRC Caulfield Guineas and did his prospects no harm with a bold run for second to Long John in the 1400 metre classic lead up taking his prizemoney haul over the $100,000 mark.

Sebring also got into the action at Flemington with his previously unbeaten filly Kiss a Rose, running a terrific race to finish second to Charlie Boy in the Group II VRC Danehill Stakes.

Also prepared by Peter Moody, Kiss a Rose will be hard to beat when she returns to the fillies races.