Uncle Sam Wins On All-Weather Debut

The vast majority of the juveniles are well into their racing career now and this means they have earned their handicap marks. This allows them to compete in the juvenile handicaps, known as nurseries, which opens up many more options. Uncle Sam had been threatening all season and gained his first career win when taking the 6f Alfie’s Bar Nursery Handicap at Newcastle.

Uncle Sam’s form has been a little bit patchy with differing trips and tactics used to try and gain a winning formula. Having dropped a few pounds in the handicap, he found himself off a fair mark when he travelled to Newcastle for the 6f race. In a wide open race, Uncle Sam was viewed as the main danger to the favourite.

Tom Eaves took the ride and after a steady start, where a rival just moved across him, the pair moved up to chase the early lead. Racing down he centre of the track, the 10 runners were well bunched tracking a decent gallop. Uncle Sam got into a nice rhythm early on and after the first couple of furlongs he was starting to press the leader.

They were quickly down to halfway and the leader was soon under pressure. Tom had been tracking them for a long way and as his rival began to come under pressure, Uncle Sam took up the lead travelling sweetly. Those in behind started to come under a drive to try and challenge the new leader.

Uncle Sam was the last one to come off the bridle, whilst hiding a length advantage. Moving inside the final 2f, Tom wound him up and got his mount lengthening. Quickening up, Uncle Sam took control and set a marker to his rivals. His nearest pursuer was working hard and started to cut the deficit as they passed the 1f pole. Uncle Sam was finding for pressure but his lead was being clawed back. Battling hard he managed to crack his rival but there was a whole host finishing off well. The final 1/2 furlong saw a handful or runners flying home whilst Uncle Sam looked to hold on. He didn’t just hold on, he found a bit more once the huffs began rattling behind him. Holding them all at bay, Uncle Sam took his first career win by 3/4 length.

It could be the last time Uncle Sam runs for the yard as he is in the sales but it is a great way to bow out. He showed a great attitude through the race and this could be the start of better things to come for him. Very honest, Uncle Sam could be really fun horse next year and this certainly won’t be his last win.