Jeff Noske’s high opinion of Salorsci was further validated when the talented three-year-old launched his autumn campaign in style at Ascot on Saturday.
The Ascot trainer lavished praise on Salorsci, who maintained his unbeaten record when he staved off Dainty Tess in the Neometals Handicap (1000m).
After settling third for Noske’s son, Jarrad, Salorsci grabbed the lead with 150m remaining and he kicked strongly when Dainty Tess challenged late.
Salorsci, who started a $2.70 favourite, defeated Dainty Tess by a head, the runner-up lost no admirers after racing wide throughout.
Speedster, Kramden, who led, faded to third.
Salorsci, a son of Discorsi, emerged as a gallop of promise earlier this year when he recorded dual wins before enjoying a spell.
He led and won his Bunbury maiden by four lengths and then held out Precious Memories by a narrow margin at Ascot.
Jeff Noske holds faith that Salorsci could develop into his stable flag bearer at the Ascot summer carnival later this year.
“He did the job and is a pretty smart horse who will be going places I would say,” said Noske.
“While he is still a young and immature horse who hasn’t developed, we will keep him over the shorter distances.
“When he does develop, he will get over a mile, 1800m and may be 2000m.
“He will probably only have another two runs this preparation before I tip him out.
“I know I have a good horse on my hands and I’m looking at a couple of races over the carnival.
“He is the best horse I have ever had.”
Meanwhile owner Bob Peters’ pre-race warning that 60kg could test the return of State Solicitor proved right in the Passages Resource Centre Handicap (1200m).
In a busy finish the Nicconi gelding, having his first start since running sixth in the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m), lacked his usual spark with the big weight.
Spoiling State Solicitor’s return was Red Paddy, a $17 chance, who won by a long-head after gaining a dream inside run for apprentice, Aaron Mitchell.
State Solicitor ran sixth, beaten ¾ of a length.
Julio Santarelli