Elation at first winner
TALENTED apprentice Breaana Smith celebrated her first win when she guided Kanji to victory in a Benchmark 76 handicap over 1350m in Devonport yesterday.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to get my first winner because it’s been quite a journey to get to this stage,” Smith, 21, said after her 16th ride.
“I’ve been apprenticed for about two years and I’ve had a few injuries along the way, so to finally get my race riding licence about eight weeks ago was satisfying and now to get my first winner, it’s a great feeling but also a relief.”
Smith had Kanji ($11) well positioned in second spot to the home turn and, when she allowed the Kaye Milne-trained six-year-old more rein, he sped clear and had enough in reserve to stave off a late challenge from race favourite Spihro ($2.10).
Kanji was the rank outsider in the small field of five, which would have annoyed most punters but definitely not the strong band of followers Smith has already secured.
Smith left school aged 16 after completing Year 10.
Her foray into racing began as a stablehand and strapper for Spreyton-based trainer Adam Trinder.
“I left Adam’s stable and headed to Queensland where I worked with a big stable that has endurance horses but, when I decided to come home, I started my apprenticeship with Angela Brakey,” she said.
“But later on I had my indenture transferred to Barry Campbell and that’s where I’ve been for the past year. Mr Campbell has been great and I’ve had a lot of help along the way from senior riders, especially Craig Newitt who has been happy to work with me on a few technique things.” SMART three-year-old filly Enzian made it three wins from her four starts this preparation with an emphatic victory in a Benchmark 64 handicap over 1150m.
Enzian ($2.30 fav) settled third on the rail from her inside draw and rider Newitt was content to allow Cuban Missile to set the speed with Vengeance Of Fury at his side.
On the home turn, Newitt eased his filly off the rails and, when balanced in the straight, she powered home to score comfortably from Vengeance Of Fury, with Gasnier working home well to grab third.