Racing in career-best form, the John O’Shea-trained import Berdibek (FRA) looked a class above when coming from last to run away with Friday’s $200,000 Listed Carlton Wyong Gold Cup (2100m).
Ridden by Hugh Bowman, the strapping grey son of Dark Angel, improved to a challenging position on the home turn. Switched out wide, Berdibek (FR) picked off runner after runner to win by a widening one and three-quarter lengths over the 5yo Maschino gelding Criminal Code with the Dansili gelding Mubariz (GB) a length back in third.
It was the second consecutive stakes win for Berdibek (FR) following his victory in the Listed Rowley Mile at Hawkesbury.
A two-time winner and stakes-placed in France when trained by Mikel Delzangles for the Aga Khan, the 8yo gelding advances his record to six two four from 24 starts with earnings of $525,898.
The run of stakes success may extend to the Group III Newcastle Cup (2300m) on September 17.
“We knew we had him in great form, and we just needed a bit of luck,” O’Shea said.
“Hugh put him to sleep down the side. When he relaxes, he has a wonderful turn of speed for a mile and quarter, mile and a half horse.”
O’Shea made special mention of Brenton Avdulla, who rode Berdibek (FRA) before he was sidelined through injury.
“We haven’t forgotten you, Brenton, and I would love to see you back on the horse and back healthy soon,” he said.
“The winners of the Wyong Cup have a tremendous record at Newcastle, and that track should suit him better, so we will head there.”
A €220,000 purchase at the 2017 Arqana Arc Sale, Berdibek (FR) is the best of two winners from five to race out of the Zamindar mare Beraviyna.
A half-sister to the Hong Kong Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup winner and Group 1 placed Mighty High (Peintre Celebre), Beraviyna, a daughter of the Group II Deauville Prix de Pomone winner Bernimixa (Linamix).
Berdibek (FR) is one of 76 stakes-winner for Yeomanstown Stud’s Dark Angel (Acclamation), best known as the sire of Champion sprinters, Battaash, Harry Angel (IRE) and Lethal Force.
