Stakes-placed Trapeze Artist filly Artistic Venture was expected to cast off maiden status in a modest race at Wyong on Sunday as a short priced favourite, but she bumped into a first starter by Ole Kirk that had other ideas.
The Peter Snowden trained gelding Rivendell had been given a good grounding at the trials and produced a great effort in the 1200m maiden to beat the filly by half a length in a good battle to the line.
A $350,000 Inglis Easter purchase from North for Vinery Stud, Rivendell runs in the Vinery colours for a syndicate of owners. As a gelding his future stud career is off the table, but he does look to have a bright future.
Rivendell is the first foal of stakes-winning Snitzel mare Wayupinthesky and is the second winner of the new season for Ole Kirk, our reigning Champion Australian First Season Sire.
