Lite’n In My Veins confirmed he was the ‘real deal’ after posting an emotional victory for trainer, Fred Kersley,
in the $150,000 Group 3 Northerly Stakes (1400m) at Ascot’s season opening meeting on Saturday.
The son of Henrythenavigator has carried the weight of public opinion since winning the Sir Ernest Lee-Steere Classic (1400m) on debut last year, but he continues to deliver and shapes as one of WA’s most exciting prospects.
Carrying the same colours as Northerly, yellow, black with Maltese cross, who the race is named after, Lite’n In My Veins, finished with a flourish from seventh position and defeated Ideal Image by a half-head.
Ideal Image, who appeared to have the race in her grasp when she snatched the lead with 150m remaining, finished ahead of Perfect Reflection and Disposition, giving owner-breeder, Bob Peters, second third and fourth positions respectively.
Kersley, who prepared Northerly to 9 Group One wins and almost $10 million in stake earnings, is generally reserved and understated after a win, but the veteran horseman admitted Lite’n In My Veins’ victory was special.
“It was an emotional victory and brings back great memories,” Kersley said.
“He is not another Northerly, but he is a very good horse.
“To win this race when it wasn’t expected was a great thrill.
“For me it is a great reward because the expectations are huge.”
Lite’n In My Veins, a winner of five races from seven starts, is entered for the Group One Railway Stakes (1600m), but Kersley said he would take it race by race.
“We have always taken it one step at a time with this horse,” Kersley said.
“We didn’t run him early when we thought he could.
“I’m prepared to be patient and take it as it comes.
“There is no one goal except to do the right thing by the horse.”
Jockey, Steven Parnham, won the Northerly Stakes for a third time after guiding Playing God (2013) and Superior Star (2003)for his father, Neville Parnham.
He believes Lite’n In My Veins is destined to have a big future.
“He has been asked to step up each time this preparation and he has been able to do so,” Parnham said.
“I have a bit of faith in this horse and think he can keep raising up.”
Julio Santarelli