Kiwi’s Sprint to Malaysian Victory

Kiwi-bred galloper Yastrzemski (NZ) (Keeper) starred in the Listed Rgt350,000 Yang Di Pertua Negeri Gold Cup (2000m) last night at Penang Turf Club.

Yastrzemski (NZ) triumphant in the Listed Yang Di Pertua Negeri Gold Cup. Photo courtesy of Penang Turf Club.

The Malaysian-based six-year-old has had 20 starts in his racing career, this being his first stakes victory. He resumed to the racetrack two-months ago under new trainer Frank Maynard after almost 15 months spelling.

Starting from barrier 2 for rider Latif Sofhan, Yastrzemski sat third last before gaining a spot on the rail inside the 1000m. After being eight lengths behind leading horse Money Machine (Testa Rossa) the son of Keeper made up ground when turning for home.

Produced wide in the straight, Yastrzemski stormed to the lead to win strongly by two-lengths over Money Machine in second and Stormy Bruce (My Lad) who finished third.

Yastrzemski has placed in 11 of his starts including five wins for owners Aussie Stable and has earned Rgt614,704.

The six-year-old was purchased by Bahen Bloodstock at the 2010 Karaka Select Sale from Haunui Farm for $145,000.

Bred by Mrs N M Leicester, Yastrzemski is out of an unraced Zabeel mare Passive Rose, a half-sister to multiple stakes winner Raw Instinct (Housebuster). His grand-dam is winning mare Jinsky Rose (Tights) who is a half-sister to stakes winner Dancing Rose (Harbor Prince).