The Black Cloud Shines in Country Race Day Sprint

Exciting Sydney raider The Black Cloud (Shamus Award-Containment, by Krupt) showcased her speed and skill to win the VRC Country Race Day Sprint (1100m) at Flemington, reports racenet.com.au. Trained by Joe Pride, the filly, who has now won four of her six starts and placed second in the other two, faced strong competition but emerged victorious ahead of Prinzerro and Wallenda. "There [were] challengers there and they looked like they might get to her but as she's done in a few of her runs she kicked very strongly and was great through the line," said Pride. This was her first race and trip outside of Sydney, and she excelled as the $3.20 favorite with TAB. Despite the upcoming Listed Creswick Stakes (1200m) at Flemington on July 6, Pride is withholding future plans until The Black Cloud returns to New South Wales. Sydney-based jockey Jay Ford, who had not won at Flemington since the 2006 Gr1 Newmarket Handicap aboard Takeover Target, agreed with Pride's cautious approach. He reflected, "She responded when challenged and even when the second horse challenged me late she extended again and started to go away from it. She's an exciting horse, she'll find her way to stakes grade."

Joe Pride is excited by The Black Cloud's potential (pic: Mark Gatt)