The Group III ATC Breeders Plate (1000m) at Randwick on Saturday attracted a strong field of talented colts from the recent official 2YO trials in Sydney and Home Affairs looks to have a quality youngster in I’m Ya Huckleberry.
That Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott trained colt stalked the leader and race favourite Eviction Notice and then got the better of that colt before settling down to fight out the finish with Incognito going down by a neck.
They covered the 1000m in a slick 57.31 seconds and look a promising group of juveniles going forward.
His rider Adam Hyeronimus was thrilled with I’m Ya Huckleberry, albeit would have liked to return a winner.
“I’m disappointed not to win,” he said after the race.
“I’m on a very good horse, but full credit to the winner, he quickened up well. He beat us fair and square, but my horse is very exciting.”
A $400,000 Magic Millions purchase from Kia Ora Stud for Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott Racing/Kestrel Thoroughbreds, I’m Ya Huckleberry is the second foal of Group III placed Exceed and Excel mare Key, a full sister to stakes-winner Oz Empress and grand-daughter of champion 3YO Filly Princess Coup.
Key was bought by Kia Ora for $600,000 from the Magic Millions Strawberry Hill Dispersal when in foal to Home Affairs with I’m Ya Huckleberry the result.
Home Affairs was also represented in the Group III ATC Gimcrack Stakes where Home Invasion (2f Home Affairs x Catwalk, by Foxwedge) finished a close up fifth beaten just a length and a half to the winner Shiki.
The Waterhouse and Bott trained filly was also partnered by Adam Hyeronimus.
“I thought she has run well and I think she is definitely a 2yo stakes class filly. Will be nice next preparation,” he said.
Home Affairs is working through a full book this spring at a fee of $82,500.
