28 Jan 2024The covers came off a potential Classic contender at Geelong where United Kingdom made a highly impressive winning debut over 1500 metres.
The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr-trained son of Almanzor was sent out a commanding favourite and despite racing greenly, he justified his support in style.
“He’s a beautiful animal with the best temperament,” stable representative Stephanie Wright said.
“He has been working super at home and his jump-outs have been really good.”
United Kingdom was tardily into stride and settled last under jockey Ben Melham before improving widest 400 metres from home and he unwound powerfully in the straight to reel in his rivals.
“Hats off to Ben, he didn’t panic when he got further back than expected and the horse has got a lightning turn of foot,” Wright said.
Bred by Christopher Grace, United Kingdom is out of the Zabeel mare Tenacity who is a half-sister to the G2 Wellington Cup winner Graphic.
He was a A$260,000 purchase by Aramco Racing at the Inglis Melbourne Premier Yearling Sale where he was offered by Bhima Thoroughbreds.