Turk Warrior’s magic Carpet ride
Stevenson’s star sprinter back to best
FORMER star juvenile Turk Warrior returned to his brilliant best to win the inaugural Ladbrokes Carpet Charge over 1009m in Devonport on Wednesday.
The Glen Stevensontrained gelding hadn’t won for almost 12 months, since taking out the Carbine Club Plate at Elwick on Hobart Cup Day last year.
But a decent spell and careful preparation by his trainer and stable rider Ismail Toker was too strong a combination in a race that is sure to be a prime target for trainers.
Turk Warrior showed brilliant early speed to lead but it was short-lived when outsider Liffeybeau sped across the field to take up the running.
Toker was happy to take a trail. Liffeybeau ($26) slipped three lengths clear turning for home with Dianne Parish aboard and connections were starting to count the cash, but that’s when Turk Warrior dug deep.
Stevenson’s star sprinter charged to the lead and he refused to wilt when seriously challenged at the business end of the race.
Turk Warrior held a long neck winning margin over Emily on the line, while Liffeybeau hung on for third, just ahead of Julius. “After the Newmarket we changed direction and focused on this race when it was introduced to the Devonport Cup Day program,” Stevenson said.
“I know he hasn’t won for nearly a year but he’s had a handful of starts and been very competitive, and his fourth in the Newmarket was a massive run.
“Not sure where we go from here, but we’ll have a decent look at the calendar and go from there.”
Toker was elated and admitted it was probably the gelding’s best win.
“Today he was very courageous because he did the hard work early and when he had to be strong at the end, he was,” Toker said.
Turk Warrior is owned by Seyit Basol, who was also elated and quite emotional about the win. “Winning the first running of this race is very special,” Basol said.
“Everyone knows what this horse means to me and for him to win like he did, showing so much courage, gives me a very special feeling inside.”