DC Off To A Flyer With First Win
It’s the time of the year when 2yr olds have so many more options with the influx of nurseries coming around. The handicaps offer ample opportunity for all levels in the juvenile division. DC Flyer had struggled to make an impact in Novice company but thrived when upped in trip for his handicap debut in the 6f McGarry Flooring & Upholstery Contracts Wishaw Nursery Handicap at Hamilton.
The son of Washington DC had failed to really get close in his three runs but they were all over 5f and the pace of the races looked to be against the gelding. Having received a mark of just 57, DC Flyer was given every chance of finding his feet in nursery company. Not only that but he would be stepping up to 6f for the first time as Tom Eaves took the ride.
Only 4 runners lined up for the contest and DC Flyer was viewed as the outsider of the field with quite a few pounds to find with his rivals. Breaking smartly, DC Flyer was sent into the lead as they charged downhill through the early stages. Edging right-handed, Tom took the field along down the centre of the track.
DC Flyer showed good speed throughout and travelled powerfully. He set a good gallop at the head of affairs and was the last one to come under pressure. Having travelled hard on the bridle to the 2f marker, once Tom shook the reins he began to lengthen. Moving inside the 2 pole he was a target for the trio of rivals but he quickened off the front.
It was the favourite who lay down a sustained challenge as the other pair wandered around under pressure. Between the 2f and 1f marker, DC Flyer was fighting to hold on to the lead as the margin dwindled to a minimum. As the ground rises up to the uphill finish it brings the runners into the final furlong. DC Flyer just wandered a little under pressure but Tom quickly corrected him and got him balanced. It was now that he really began to find more and despite going into the unknown, he was showing no signs of slowing up. The extra furlong proved no issue and the gelding thrived for it, striding out to a comfortable 1 3/4 length victory.
DC Flyer enjoyed the step up in trip and it really helped the improvement needed to win this contest. He showed bright speed but the way he finished off the race was even more impressive. Although it was a small field his rivals had shown a higher level of form so the win can be marked up. DC Flyer showed improvement for the 6f trip and can continue that trend in similar contests.