 Double Whisky wins for Gordon connections
With virtually no cricket played this weekend, the Gordon supporters were looking for other means to help pass the time. They came up trumps in the form of a beautiful black gelding called Double Whisky at Royal Randwick, the headquarters of Sydney racing on Friday. You might ask what has this to do with Gordon and cricket? Heaps.
(The connections at Royal Randwick)
He is owned in a syndication of true blue Gordon connections. Peter Horwitz, our Academy sponsor for many years and former 1st grade cricketer for Gordon has the lions share. Our President, Andy Falk, our Academy director Michael Falk and one of our selectors in Tiddles Wilson, also own the odd leg and tail. Good friends, the Campbell’s, originally woolgrowers from Walgett are also shareholders and the name is derived from Whisky Creek, which ran through their property.
Peter Horwitz purchased Double Whisky in April 2008 at the NZ Bloodstock sales. It is by Golan, out of Double Owe and has the pedigree to stay. Chris Waller, our trainer approved and Peter had the Nov 2006 foal back in Australia by end April 2008. We had a 2yo that we were told would probably not race seriously until he matures as a 3yo. Ridiculous to ask this group to be patient, however we had no choice and had to wait until May last year for his first barrier trial. Looked really promising and I thought here we go again - another Gently Bentley (all hype and no substance – a bit like our PM).
(The mighty Double Whisky)
Chris wanted to give him a race hit out for experience and thus finished an excellent 1.8m 4th at Canterbury at the end of Sept. After a 3 and a bit months spell, he again had a promising trial in early Jan this year. Now serious Race time beckoned.
Wyong 1300m was chosen for Jan 19th and Hughie Bowman was booked to ride.
The support team was there in force with the Falks, Horwitzy’s (Peter and son Jack), Campbell’s, John Morrison, Peter Colley and Tiddles ready for a huge day (and night). We had booked into the Mantra’s magnificent golf spa resort Kooindah, which is within walking distance from the track – just in case.
We were not disappointed. Double Whisky duly greeted the judge by nearly a length, at the handy price of around $3.50 and you would have thought we had just won the Melbourne Cup. Many double whisky’s were downed and what a night was had at the Golf club. Thank goodness Peter Colley’s father Frank joined us for dinner and was able to take Peter home. I of course again put the Pres to bed – no challenge.
Now to the 2nd start at Royal Randwick last Frid, 5th Feb. We were there in even greater force, except for the younger Falk who was required to teach our youngsters – we all have to make sacrifices! James and Timothy Packman, Ed Howitt jnr, the Horwitzy’s, the Campbell’s, the Drake’s, Falky, Tiddles and Josh Poysden, the most important guest, our 18yo Ol’Dart leggie (yes very rare and a very good one at that).
(Michael Falk and Andy Falk survey their purchase last year...looking very country arn't they!!)
Corey Brown replaced the suspended Hugh Bowman and after some sound wisdom from Josh, was legged on and duly greeted the Judge in 1st place, by the barest of margins. Around $4.50 was the welcome price and now was the time to celebrate. We headed to the winners reception in the Stewards room and young Josh was immediately on the phone to his Dad in London extolling the mood of excitement.
After watching the replay 50 times, back to the dining room, the odd double whisky and the celebrations had begun. The welcome news for the Moth was that 5th grade had been called off and he could then have a couple. Of course Hoppa, Josh and Jamma had to refrain. The winner’s sash was given to the Pres and unfortunately we are still not quite sure where it is hidden.
A tremendous day for all; a really promising horse and hopefully we can all join in some fun times in the future.
The next start is hopefully in 2 weeks time on Sat Feb 20 at Rosehill Gardens over 1500m.
Cheers Tiddles.
If you want to watch a video of the race click on link below.
http://horseracing.bigpondsport.com/livevideoreplays/tabid/75/videoid/3269/randwick+race+1+-+5210/default.aspx
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