Silken Salute Makes Dream Debut at Eagle Farm

Silken Salute nails them on the line to secure an electric maiden victory at Eagle Farm | Image Courtesy of Trackside Photography

Shailer Racing owners were rewarded with an exciting debut victory at Eagle Farm, with Silken Salute producing a strong and professional performance to take out the Open 2YO Handicap (1300m) under Andrew Mallyon.

Heading into the race, the team had always held a good opinion of the son of Hello Youmzain, and while he was stepping out over 1300 metres first-up, there was quiet confidence he would be strong late if afforded the right run.

Jumping cleanly, he began well before easing back into cover as planned, allowing him to settle comfortably through the middle stages. He travelled sweetly in transit and, although momentarily left flat-footed upon straightening, he quickly balanced up and began to build through his gears.

Inside the final 200 metres, his strength came to the fore, powering over the top of his rivals to secure a debut win full of merit. It was an especially pleasing effort given the leader shifted ground late, with Silken Salute showing great professionalism to hold his line and finish off the race strongly.

A $60,000 Magic Millions purchase, the performance suggested he will continue to improve as the distances increase, with races in the 1400–1600 metre range looking well within reach as his preparation progresses.

It was a particularly special result for the team, delivering a first winner in the Cambridge Stud colours for Sir Brendan Lindsay, who remained in the ownership after the colt was secured on the Gold Coast.

Looking ahead, there is a similar race back at Eagle Farm in two weeks’ time over 1400 metres, which shapes as a natural next step. With further improvement, the Queensland Winter Carnival looms as an exciting target in the background.

It was a very pleasing result all around and a great way to kick off Silken Salute’s racing career.

Congratulations to his ownership group on a terrific win, and a big thank you to those who joined us on course to celebrate the occasion.