QUALITY Tasmanian three-year-old Barysh Quest issued a strong warning to all interstate invaders being aimed at the upcoming Schweppes Tasmanian Derby when he scored an impressive win in the Betfair Hobart Guineas over 2100 metres at Tattersall’s Park in Hobart today (Sunday).
The Gary White-trained gelding was touted as a possible Derby prospect late last season and after destroying his opposition today he is a top chance to live up to his trainer’s expectations on February 5.
Craig Newitt partnered Barysh Quest at his previous outing in the Tasmanian Guineas over 1600m in Launceston where the gelding copped severe interference at a crucial stage but rattled home to finish a close second to Moving Money.
Newitt again took the sit and this time he ensured he stayed out of trouble.
White’s other runner Colonial Gold shared the lead with Head Spinner and they set a solid clip but when the pace slackened 1000 metres out Newitt sent his charge around the field to join the leaders.
The stablemates dropped Head Spinner off and booted four lengths clear and when Newitt called on Barysh Quest to deliver the knockout blow in the straight he did so with consummate ease.
Barysh Quest went on to defeat the Anthony Freedman-trained Caravaggio by 2-1/4 lengths with Greg Eurell’s pintsize mare French Tang two lengths away third, just in advance of Colonial Gold that battled on gamely for fourth.
White said the Tasmanian Derby will be the gelding’s next mission.
“That will top him off nicely for the Derby,” a jubilant White said after the race.
“I thought Craig (Newitt) might have gone a bit early on him but that’s what he’s paid to do – go out there and make the decisions.”
“I think my horse proved his worth as a Derby prospect today and I was also pleased with how Colonial Gold stuck to his guns so he’ll also go to the Derby,” he said.
Newitt was full of praise for Barysh Quest.
Listen to what jockey Craig Newitt had to say about Barysh Quest’s Betfair Hobart Guineas win – click here .
By PETER STAPLES.