Blue Lakota Bolts to First Success

Generally a win is a win and it doesn’t matter how it comes about. Getting the 1 next to your name in the form book is the most important factor but sometimes there are certain things people like to see. One of the most common terms is “they won like an odds on shot should”. Well nobody could deny Blue Lakota of that as he shed his maiden take by 4 1/2 lengths in the 6f BetMGM: It’s Showtime Nursery Handicap at Newcastle.

The son of Sioux Nation made a low key start to his career during the turf season. Only managing to beat one rival, there could have been many writing Blue Lakota off, even at this early stage of his career. Although his form wasn’t showing it, Blue Lakota had been doing a lot better than that behind the scenes, which led to a little investigating. Following his third run, the gelding would have a small wind op.

Racing on the all-weather, Blue Lakota certainly improved as he began running in nurseries. Beaten a short head and 1/2 length, Blue Lakota had taken a step forward and looked like a winner in waiting. Back to Newcastle once again, he would line up against 8 rivals, bringing the strongest form to the table. Tom Eaves took the ride and took the race by the scruff of the neck.

Sent off as the 5/6 favourite, Blue Lakota jumped on terms but was soon in front and taking control of the race. With the chestnut now spearheading the field, the rest followed as they raced towards the stands side rail. Tom was happy to dictate, and he did so at a strong pace looking confident that he was on the best horse in the race.

Realistically there was never a moment of  doubt for Blue Lakota. Galloping strongly out in front, there was only one rival who could lay up with him through the first half of the race. By halfway he had many of his rivals under pressure. Tom sat and waited as his colleagues were hard at work and Blue Lakota moved up to the 2f with ease. The lead did close but it was the manner in which Blue Lakota was travelling that suggested it could be game over even at this point.

Tom got his mount to lengthen passing the 2f pole and immediately the advantage grew. The squabbling in behind was just for the placings as Blue Lakota started to stretch clear. Tom had yet to even ask him for an effort but that would come entering the final furlong. The pair were 3 lengths clear and obviously winning but Tom wanted to keep him up his work. The final 200 yards was all about education, with Tom working and in the saddle. Winning by 4 1/2 lengths told of the dominating performance that Blue Lakota had just put in.

The win was coming and Blue Lakota was expected sooner rather than later but the style in which he did was impressive. Setting strong fractions he galloped away from the field and could have more in the tank. People may question the form but he could nothing more than win in this fashion. There will be plenty more opportunities for the gelding but it will be interesting to see what his new mark may be next Tuesday.