Simon Miller wasn’t surprised by First Among Equals win at Belmont this afternoon but the dominance of the victory has given him food for thought.
The Group 2 WA Guineas (1600m) on Super Saturday looms large on the horizon for the gelding after an imposing maiden win in the Westspeed 3YO Handicap (1200m).
First Among Equals, ridden by Jason Whiting, won eased down, defeating Charge Ahead by 3 ½ lengths. Phantom Choice finished close behind in third place.
Miller said there was significant improvement left in his charge who wasn’t missed by punters, he was plunged him into favouritism.
“He is a pretty good horse by Exceed and Excel so the pedigree is half way there,” said Miller.
“He is still not there and has a fair amount of coat to lose.
“He is going to get better over ground and I would like to set him for the Guineas.
“But I will let him come into his own and won’t be going too hard early.
“It was a dominant and in the end a real soft win.”
Miller’s day got better when Eurosun ran on from ninth on the turn to hold out the fast-finishing The Director in the Tabradio on 1206am Handicap (1400m).
The Haradasun gelding, a relatively cheap purchase at $22,000, has won three races and been placed once from his five career stars.
“He still is a work in progress but has the engine and attitude,” said Miller.
“I can’t wait to get him over a trip.
“When he figures it all out he will be a very good horse.”