Beaten but certainly not bowed.
That’s the sentiment of co-trainer Sean Casey who insists he was unfazed by Wind And The Lion’s first up defeat in the Placid Ark Prelude (1000m) at Ascot two weeks ago.
All eyes were focused on the exciting three-year-old who was sent out a warm favourite after making a grand entry to racing at Belmont in July when he distanced his rivals by 3 lengths.
From a wide barrier Wind And The Lion settled back in the Placid Ark Prelude and despite running on for fourth he was unable to catch and reel in frontrunner, Repossession.
Although the first prize cheque went begging, Casey, who co-trains with his son, Jake, said Wind And The Lion performed creditably from an awkward barrier and has what it takes to rebound in Saturday’s Listed Placid Ark Stakes (1200m).
“With the bad barrier he had to go back a little bit too far and the race got away from him,” Casey said on Tabradio.
“Chris (Parnham) had to get working on him early to make up the ground and he was pretty gallant in defeat, you know.
“There were a few horses in the race that were entitled to beat him home I thought with better runs.
“He was very gritty and we’re putting the barrier and the fact that it was a prep before the Placid Ark.
“He ticked every box without winning.”
Although vanquished in the Placid Ark Prelude, Wind And The Lion hasn’t diminished the confidence of Casey and punters.
He’s the $3.50 Tabtouch favourite, ahead of Repossession at $3.90 and first emergency, Magna’s Choice, rated $4.40.
In a capacity field of 16 runners, Wind And The Lion has drawn barrier three for Parnham and that’s the key according to Casey.
“We’re really happy with him, Chris is really happy with him,” Casey said.
“He put in a beautiful gallop on the proper at Ascot (Tuesday) and has come through that well.
“The horse with a good gate should get a trail behind some pretty fast horses.
“The way he found the line from an uncomfortable run (Prelude) and out wide the other day, if he can get a clear run, you’d think he’ll be fighting right at them.
“He should present pretty well on Saturday and we’re happy with where he’s at.”
Stable mate Siren Assault copped a blow after drawing barrier 20, but Casey hopes she can settle midfield after racing forward when sixth in the Listed Belgravia Stakes (1200m).
The Rich Enuff filly is $11 with Tabtouch. Jason Whiting to partner.