29 Mar 2023Mr Blackwood’s deep reserves of stamina and versatility stood him in winning stead on the Hillside track at Sandown.
The Cindy Alderson-trained son of the late Tavistock won for the fourth time in his 16-start career when successful over 2400 metres in the hands of Daniel Moor and it was the five-year-old’s first victory on a soft track.
“I spoke to Daniel before the race and said there’s no reason why he won’t handle it,” Alderson said.
“I’ve kept his races spaced out and he’s really hitting his straps.”
Bred by Sir Patrick and Lady Hogan and sold through our draft at Karaka, Mr Blackwood settled handy to the pace off the fence and from third on the turn wore his rivals down.
“I’d like to see him at Flemington, I think he will love the flat track and needs a distance to wind up.”
Alderson said Mr Blackwood was a pleasure to have at her Cranbourne stable.
“He’s a real gentleman and everybody loves him.”
Mr Blackwood was bought at Karaka for $15,000 by trainer Peter Lock before relocating to Victoria.
He is out of the late Zabeel mare Zsa Zsa Gabeel and is a brother to the two-time winner and stakes placegetter Saint Eustace.
They are from the family of Group 1 winners Golden Sword and Royal Descent and the dual Group 2 winner and sire Falkirk.