A decision to delay Leonorasensation’s racing career is proving to be an astute move by the gelding’s trainer, Justine Erkelens.
The Ascot-based Erkelens resisted any desire to go early and unveiled the son of Choisir at Pinjarra over 1200m on August 29.
The three-year-old responded with an impressive maiden victory when he put a 2 ½ length margin on his nearest rival.
He backed it up at Belmont on Saturday and although the margin wasn’t as great it was by no means any less authoritative.
He was up against stiff opposition including smart last-start winners Big Caroline, Generous Choice and Hyde Park Fever.
Erkelens said defeating a quality field of rivals was one of the most pleasing aspects of Leonora’s second career victory.
“He won well and it gives me a guide about where we are at with him,” said Erkelens on TABradio.
“He has had a good education because I knew he wouldn’t race as a two-year-old.
“He was so big and I thought I would get him as ready as possible for when he got to the races.
“It allowed me not to be hard on him and it has worked out really, really well.
“He has pulled up fantastic and all he is doing is eating so he is happy.
“He has pulled up like he hasn’t even been out there.
“He is a horse with plenty of character.
“There is a nice 1400m race in a fortnight.
“Then I might aim him at the Guineas (1600m).
“He is a big calm horse who takes everything in his stride.
“For now if I will aim for the mile and then think about further ground a little later.”
RWWA: Julio Santarelli