Racehorse TALK

Durham Lodge purchase share in Universal Ruler 19 Jun 2009

By Marty Young - perthracing.com.au

The Impressive Racing Syndicate headed up by Kevin Berry and their trainer Darren McAuliffe, have entered into a business agreement with Durham Lodge which will see Universal Ruler race on for another season, before being retired to the picturesque Muchea Stud next year.

The gutsy son of Scenic was to be retired after his last start win in the Group 3 Belmont Sprint (1400 metres), but after consultation with Durham Lodge it was decided to be in the best interests of the horse to race on for another season.

McAuliffe reported to perthracing.com.au in an interview  that Universal Ruler will be nominated for the York Stakes (1600 metres) at Belmont next Saturday and then be aimed at early spring Victorian Group races.

“He has pulled up really well from his win in the Belmont Sprint and if I think he can win the York Stakes, he will take his place.”

“Following that, the Bletchingly Stakes (1200 metres) at Group 3 level at Caulfield in August and the JJ Liston Stakes (1400 metres) at Group 2 also at Caulfield would be his main aims.”

“It is important to bolster his black type successes and I believe that he has genuine winning chances in the races mentioned.”

It seems a perfect fit with a son of Scenic returning to his spiritual home, to a stud that looks the likely winner of the Australasian Breeders of the Year Award.

“I would really like to thank David, Rita and Jeremy Smith for showing the faith they have in this horse and to have them as racing partners, as well as partners in him as stallion, should be a lot of fun for all concerned.”

Perthracing.com.au