Jakarta Fulfils Promise

The all-weather provides ample opportunities at this time of the year for lightly raced individuals. Only in Jakarta ticks that box with just 3 runs to his name last year. He made his a successful, return to action when taking the 7f Boost You Acca At Betmgm Novice Stakes at Newcastle.

Typical of his sire, No Nay Never, Only in Jakarta was a lovely looking colt along with a powerful physical. After making a low key debut he was afforded time to mature through the season before tackling his second run. Subsequently his following two runs would result in runner up finishes, showing plenty of promise along the way. On both occasions only immaturity cost the colt, who had yet to match up his racing mind with his physique.

Keen to get a win under his belt and looking towards his 3yo campaign, it was decided that Only in Jakarta would have a campaign on the all-weather. although holding a handicap mark of 78, the novice route was chosen. Tom Eaves would take the ride as the pair lined up against 8 rivals. The race revolved around the two with handicap marks and it was Only in Jakarta who would be sent off favourite, 4lb higher rated than his rival.

Tom took the race by the scruff of the neck from the off. Despite stepping unto 7f for the first time, he sent the colt straight to front, aided by his rivals not willing to go on. It was easy to see why with the British storms creating a gale to race in to.

Only in Jakarta travelled powerfully on the front end setting a steady enough pace. The race would be a tough enough test so Tom was ensuring that there would be plenty in reserve if required. Very little would change through the first half of the race with the only thing to note was the keen racing second fav.

As they moved towards the 2f marker, Tom just allowed his colt to lengthen and increase the tempo slightly. Still travelling well Only in Jakarta edged a little further from his pursuers as the race began to heat up. Now Tom started to get a little more animated, niggling away and moving through the gears.

still there was no real change in the order but the race was certainly now on. Working away in the saddle, Tom was getting a good response from his mount who started to pull away from those around him. Entering the final furlong it was time to go and Only in Jakarta was asked for his full effort. Tom was working hard in the saddle but it was all hands and heels. He began to assert but there was one rival who was making good headway, storming through along the rail. Only in Jakarta was finding for pressure and still Tom didn’t resort to using his whip. Despite the gap closing Only in Jakarta had enough left and repelled his rival, scoring by a neck.

Although the winning margin was only a neck, the performance does require a big upgrade. There was never any doubt throughout the contest that Only in Jakarta was the best horse in the race. Making all in a strong wind was very impressive, doing all the hard work but having plenty in the tank when required. Also Tom didn’t really have to do too much in the saddle, suggesting that he felt there was more there if needed. Finally it is always hard to come back off a layoff and no matter what he did here, there was always going to be room for improvement. Only in Jakarta is a lovely prospect and whether he continues on the artificial surface or waits for the turf, there should be a lot more to come from him now.