Talented Maurice (Jpn) colt Mazu has always promised to win a Black Type race, but is often his own worst enemy, however he put the best foot forward at Randwick on Saturday to win the $200,000 Listed ATC Sir Brian Crowley Stakes (1200m).
Fitted with pacifiers to try and curb his more fiery tendencies, the Peter and Paul Snowden trained Mazu looked sensational in the yard and ran accordingly.
He travelled well for Sam Clipperton, albeit well on the bridle, and surged to the front after turning for home.
Mazu was strong to the line beating progressive colt Battleton (Zoustar) by a length and a quarter.
“I’m just so happy he produced today for the owners,” said Paul Snowden.
“He’s got plenty to give, but unfortunately he doesn’t make it easy.
“He should really be in the Coolmore Stud Stakes next Saturday, that’s the sort of ability he’s got and maybe that will eventually come to fruition.
“I’ll talk to Dad tonight and we’ll work out what’s next for him.”
Sam Clipperton offered some good insight into this enigmatic colt.
Bred and sold by Parsons Creek Pastoral, Mazu was bought by Triple Crown Syndications for $180,000 at Inglis Classic and has now won two of six starts earning over $190,000.
Mazu is a half-brother to Group I VRC Coolmore Stud Stakes winner and Golden Slipper runner up Headway being the fifth winner from Group II placed Flying Spur mare Chatelaine.
Chatelaine missed in the two seasons after producing Mazu and was covered last spring by Toronado (IRE).
Mazu is the fourth stakes-winner for Arrowfield Stud’s Japanese shuttler Maurice and is his first in Australia.
The leading Australian second crop sire by winners, Maurice stands at a fee of $44,000.
