Tenace is a horse that Nigel has always thought would be a multiple-winning horse. As we all know however, sometimes it takes a while for it to ‘click’ for some horses. It has certainly been that case for this son of Victoria’s leading stallion, Toronado.
Thankfully, Tenace put it all together on the track on Tuesday at Sportsbet-Ballarat with a good win in the Polytrack Maiden over 1500m.
In some of Tenace’s previous races he has been a little lost early in the running. But this time was different. He jumped well and Robbie Downey found a perfect position just three of four lengths from the leaders.
A little bit of confidence and encouragement goes a long way in helping horses find their groove. Robbie certainly helped Tenace in that department, riding strongly in the closing stages to hold off the second horse. Together, they spaced a four length gap to the third-placed horse suggesting a good future awaits.
Tenace is by Toronado, a sire selected by clients John and Diane Clark for their former good racemare Fastbrook. We were lucky to have trained Fastbrook in her career, although she was perhaps unlucky not to have won more than the three she did win. Still, a city winner at her third race start was followed by two further wins before being purchased outright by John and Di for a broodmare career.
Swettenham Stud have enjoyed John and Di’s custom over the years, with Tenace the first winner they have bred. Joining them in the co-ownership of Tenace is Matt and Gabby Ramunno and another long-time client and good friend, Paul Cochrane.
Congratulations to all.
Watch Nigel’s post-race video interview
