"It's the iron horse Burning Front in the lead... what a wonderful horse, as tough as they come."
Seldom are race callers prone to complimenting horses during the run but no wonder Terry Bailey is so full of admiration for this particular galloper - Burning Front's talent and honesty earning him fans around the country.
On Sunday jumping from the widest
gate in the VOBIS Gold Bullion at Racing.com Park, the Darren Weir trained
chestnut took a while to find the lead but once in front he dominated.
Having his rivals under pressure approaching the turn, Burning Front railed well and was soon clear, his winning margin of 3/4 length not truly indicative of just how superior he was.
It was start number 16 for his current campaign and only once during that time has been out of the placings - a close-up fifth after doing it tough in the Seymour Cup won by subsequent Group One winner Turn Me Loose.
"We are just blessed," said managing part owner Justin Lovatt. "He is honest as the day is long as he has such a great constitution."
Jockey Brad Rawiller has won four races aboard Burning Front and the horse is one of his favourites - "I just love riding this horse, he is a beauty... just a marvel."
A nine times winner of over $320,000 in stakes, Burning Front was a very tough Gr.3 Sandown Stakes third at his previous outing and he did a good job rising in weight and dropping back in distance on Sunday.
Lovatt, who shares
Burning Front with owners from around Australia and New Zealand, also stands
the talented gelding's in-form sire Primus at Stonehurst Farm, Strathbogie.
Burning Front was part of his sire's second double in two days, Primitive Man in winning form at Clare on Sunday whilst on Saturday Pandanus and First Position provided the Paul Grills stable with a double at Bowraville.
And it was nearly a treble on Sunday with Batman Returns an eye-catching Swan Hill second at just his second outing.
Primus' progeny have won six races this month, another smart performer being Laughing Gravy who was sold to Singapore after recording a seven length maiden victory at Murtoa last year.
Setting up a good gallop in the Munificence Stakes at Kranji, the Cliff Brown trained five-year-old was headed at the 150m, showing great heart to kick back and record his second Singapore victory.
For further information on Primus contact Stonehurst's Anne Richardson on 0425 859 407 or Justin Lovatt 0416 063 873.
