PROMISING three-year-old Socks On Fire broke his maiden status in Hobart on Sunday to vindicate his trainer’s belief that he was an above average galloper.
Socks On Fire went into the race with only three previous starts to his credit but from that, on paper, gave him little chance of emerging triumphant.
But the flashy chestnut with the prominent four white socks delivered the knockout blow to his rivals in the home straight to score clearly from Saumur with Cool Gee Gee a closing third.
Socks On Fire was ridden by James Nevin and it was his first win since returning from a six-month lay-off.
“This horse has so much potential it’s not funny,” Nevin said.
“He is still very green and hasn’t got much of a clue as to what racing is all about but he is a natural athlete and once he comes to terms with the caper he could be very good,” he said.
Socks On Fire is trained by Nevin’s grandfather Ken Hanson and the rider was thrilled that his first win back was aboard one of Hanson’s.
“I was hoping my first winner back would on one of Pop’s so this is a bit more special,” Nevin said.
Socks On Fire was allowed to settle back in the field and eased into the race from the 600-metre peg.
The heavily backed favourite Divine Decree showed great early speed to lead but it was the first beaten turning for home.
Nevin produced Socks On Fire to challenge in the home straight and made his charge at the same time as Saumur but it was Hanson’s gelding that found the most over the concluding stages.
Nevin said he was pleased to be back riding and a new and well-balanced diet had been the secret to him returning to race riding.
“W had to give it (riding) away because weight issues and stomach ulcers, which were probably caused by my previous wasting habits.”
“But I have a much better diet that enables me to eat decently without too much effort and I’m committed to riding at 58kg that also doesn’t put too much pressure on me,” he said.