Malkara’s gaze lifts to 1400m
MALKARA has recorded back-to-back wins at the Gold Coast and trainer Michael Costa says the gelding is yet to show his full potential.
The four-year-old won Saturday’s Aquis Park Class 2 Handicap (1200m) with jockey Scott Galloway in the saddle to record a second win from as many starts in his second preparation.
It has also taken his record to three wins from nine runs.
Both of his recent victories have come over 1200m and Costa said not only did Malkara improve further on Saturday, he is primed to find even more success over 1400m.
“To be honest I thought it was an easier race this week,” Costa said.
“He definitely did improve and he still has a bit of improvement in him. I have always thought he would be a better horse over 1400m or a mile. The last preparation he had a few setbacks and he was still maturing.
“He had a few viral infections and he has bounced back from that.
“As soon as he hit the front (on Saturday) he pricked the ears and eased himself down. Even though he won comfortably a couple of metres after the post, the whole field swamps him because he just does what he has to.
“He can show that turn of foot over the 1400m.”
Costa bought Malkara as a yearling while training in Sydney and brought him to Queensland at the end of last year.
Malkara’s recent wins have ensured a new partnership between Costa and jockey Scott Galloway has started with success.