Wednesday 28 February 2018

VJ Day Not Yet Victorious

Race horse names. How many times have you seen a name and later realised it was a place traveled, an important person in history or a moment in time? 

I guess VJ Day was named with reference to Victory over Japan Day which fell on 2nd September 1945. 

It's also the name of a racehorse trained by Kevin Ryan. 

This American-bred bay gelding, a son of War Front, hasn't proved a winner so far in three starts. Aquis Farm Pty Ltd own this $250,000 yearling purchase. The mare, Sassy Image, won 6 from 14 starts, racing at the highest level and winning a Group 1. She concluded her racing career in the US after predominantly campaigned in France. Total prize earnings of £500,000.

VJ Day was fancied in the betting on all three starts racing in June, July & August. Strangely on the 17th of each month. This may have been to give him time and strengthen up. Placed 5th, 6th & 3rd. Not beaten a great deal and never bigger than odds of 4/1. 

Group Horse identified this gelding was respected by connections but the latent talent was still raw, inexperienced and needing time. He received a couple of significant entries including the Railway Stakes (Group 2) which takes place in late June or early July. Those aspirations look foolhardy now. Often a huge price tag sits heavy on trainers, jockeys and punters. 

4:55 Wolverhampton (28th February)

VJ Day makes his return to Maiden class in a six-strong field. Jamie Spencer takes the ride. This 6/4 shot looks to have one major contender in Dubai Acclaim who has battle hard three times for Richard Fahey. 

So often well entered two-year-olds shines at three. They need a little bit of time to show they that initial promise remains. 

Time will always tell.