CONSISTENT five-year-old Announced signaled he could be a cups candidate this season with a remarkable win in the Growl 0-66 Handicap over 2100 metres at Tattersall’s Park in Hobart on Sunday.
With premier jockey Brendon McCoull aboard, Announced came from what looked a hopeless position nearing the home turn to score drawing away from placegetters North Lodge and Atcos Quest.
Announced showed his customary early speed to lead but Samsonic’s rider was desperate to assume that role and he set a solid clip once he found the front.
Announced was forced back throuigh the field midrace when a number of runners rolled forward to make their challenges.
McCoull crept his charge into the race but appeared to be out of it at the top of the home straight but to his credit he dug deep at the business end of the race and emerged triumphant.
The David and Scott Brunton-trained gelding has been a model of consistency this preparation, winning or being placed at all but one of his five starts this time in.
The Tough Speed gelding was having his first attempt at 2100 metres and jockey McCoull said it was a pleasing result given that the horse was not ridden in his comfort zone that is usually in front of the pack.
Listen to what jockey Brendon McCoull had to say about Announced’s performance on Sunday – click here .