Three year old filly, Raise The Colours provided Horsham trainer Paul Preusker with his first winner in ATB colours at Bendigo yesterday.

At her second start the daughter of Raise The Flag scored a comprehensive win after settling near last in the Bendigo Mazda Maiden Plate over 1600m.

Following on from a gritty second on debut, the filly appreciated the extra 300m of this open grade Maiden.

The win was more impressive than the final winning margin, a tendency to lay in late restricting the margin to three quarters of a length.

Declan Bates rode a patient race from an outside barrier, allowing the filly to settle into a lovely rhythm, albeit eight to ten lengths from the leaders.

The ability to get to the leaders quickly, then sustain her run showed up the great staying potential on offer.

For Preusker, the win was a reward for horsemanship and absolute patience.

Three or four grounding preparations, allowed the filly to be competitive as soon as she raced.

From now, only racing experience will allow her to furnish into a complete stayer.

It has been a great job by Paul and his team.

An eye on the South Australian 3YO staying races is a possibility should she come through this run well.

A New Zealand purchase, the Raise The Flag breed have a special significance with ATB owners, especially through the deeds of recently retired star stayer Yogi.

Many of the Yogi owners are on board with this filly.

Congratulations to owners Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock Pty Ltd, DR Wagner, Brittain Racing, ML Byrne, Mrs SM Byrne, J Kitsou, Tuscan Twelve, SN Davidson, Titil Eight Goes Racing No. 2, PJ Gallivan, AJ Brown, JS Baltruschaitis, Ms MGC Caliste, JW Clements, Eromsil, PM Lynch, LM McCartin & Ms LJ Gillies.

Join the ATB family by purchasing a share in one of our yearlings by clicking here for our sales page.

Photo: Racing Photos

Article: Peter Morganti