Dunkel (NZ) Delivers in Launceston Guineas

Exciting prospect Dunkel (NZ) (Dundeel) added a first piece of black type to his record with a thrilling victory in Friday’s A$125,000 Listed Kevin Sharkie Launceston Guineas (2100m). 

Bought for $40,000 from Karaka 2021 and $100,000 from the 2021 Ready to Run Sale, Dunkel has now had five starts for four wins and a second, earning A$304,500 in stakes.

The Patrick Payne-trained gelding was the overwhelming favourite among a six-horse field in Friday’s feature, and as they made their way down the Launceston straight, he slowly but surely wore down the front-running Soul Choice (Redoute’s Choice) to score by a neck. The rest of the field finished more than five lengths behind the first pair.

“There would be few six-horse fields as interesting as that one,” winning jockey Harry Coffey said. “It was a brilliant ride by Jordy Childs in front. That filly ran well, but our fella has a bit of class.

“I was able to ride him a bit closer today. If we had been any further back, he might have been vulnerable. I was lucky that I was close enough on the corner to make a race of it.

“He loves to win and attack the line, so what more can you ask?

“Every time he goes to the races, he improves and is still learning. It’s great to bring him to Tassie – it will help him grow up.”