Quintus Arrius Sheds Maiden Tag
Although the yard do not have too many horses to run at this time of year there looks to be some promising sorts returning to action. Usually it is the 3yo’s who were maybe a little backward last year or didn’t get the amount of runs that were expected. Quintus Arrius was one of those who only saw the track twice as a juvenile but bounced back to his best to win the 6f Bet UK Over 40,000 Live Streamed Races Novice Stakes at Newcastle.
The son of Mehmas was touted as one the 2yo’s who should be out early on last season. Bred for speed and built packed with muscle, it seemed that we would be seeing him early on in the year. As happens in this sport, the colt had different ideas and would make his debut in September. It was a run full of promise as he finished second and looked like a winner waiting to happen.
Ground always becomes an issue late on in the season and it proved to be that when Quintus Arrius failed to handle tough, sticky ground. With that Kevin decided to wait with the colt and aim him for the all-weather, starting early in 2023. Giving him a small break, Quintus strengthened and was ready to go when the Novice’s came around at Newcastle.
With 11 runners going to post, half of the field looked be up against it on form, with the fancied runners holding winning form and stronger CV’s. Tom Eaves has started 2023 in good form and took the ride, giving a confident account from the off.
Popping out of the gates well, Tom allowed Quintus Arrius to go forward and find his stride. Latching on to the leader’s girths, Quintus Arrius sat in second spot, tracking a fairly sedate pace. As the market leaders took a lead, they settled in behind and the field began to filter into more of a slipstream line.
Through the first half of the race the leader edged over to the stands side rail. Tom was sat on their outer and tracked his rival, just a neck away at all times. Quintus Arrius had been fitted with cheek pieces for the first time, as he can be a little lazy at home. They looked to have the desired affect at his stage as the colt travelled smoothly past half way.
As they moved past the 2f marker, the leader gave way to Quintus Arrius who picked up the lead. Tom was motionless as his main rivals tried to catch up. Now he began to wind up his mount to try and get him to lengthen and quicken. The pair were joined at the furlong pole and for a few strides were actually headed. This is where Tom asked for full effort and Quintus Arrius responded. Changing leads he quickened up again and started to get on top. stealing the lead back the margin opened up with 1/2f to go. He has broken his nearest pursuer but the favourite was flying down the centre. It was going to be a last ditch effort from the fav but Quintus Arrius understood the task at hand and had enough int he tank to repel his rival, earning the win by a head.
It was great to see Quintus Arrius bounce back to form and he looks to have more to come. Having travelled well, he just needed all the urgings and help from his rivals. He looks to be the sort who doesn’t quite take his job 100% seriously at present and that is why the cheek pieces were used. He will only get better and looks to be a nice 3yo going forward. Another run on the all-weather before the turf season would likely be his next move and it will interesting to see what his opening mark will be following this win.