18 Mar 2023Stakes performer King’s Crossing drew attention to his autumn prospects with a sterling return to racing at Geelong.
The Almanzor three-year-old was produced for an effortless first-up victory over 1726 metres by trainer Danny O’Brien.
It was King’s Crossing’s first appearance since he was unplaced in the G1 VRC Derby off the back of a gallant effort for third in the Listed Geelong Classic.
“I am thrilled to see him return with such an emphatic performance,” O’Brien said.
“He showed good signs in the spring, but for him to knock this race over first-up has us excited for his future as he is only going to improve fitness wise and will be better suited as we step out in trip also.”
King’s Crossing coasted along in fourth spot before peeling three wide 400 metres from home and when asked for a serious effort by rider Patrick Moloney, he romped clear to win by 3.25l.
He was sold by breeder Blandford Lodge at Karaka to O’Brien and agent Bruce Perry for $220,000 and is a half-brother to the G3 Bendigo Cup winner Top Of The Range.
Their dam is the Montjeu mare Spiriting and she is a half-sister to the G3 Kingston Stakes winner Just Polite, dam of the G1 Auckland Cup winner Ladies First and Ladies Man, successful in this season’s G3 Trentham Stakes.