Owner’s surprise investment paying off

Prominent owner and former Bathurst Harness Racing Club Vice President Wayne Loader has invested heavily in the industry in recent years, attending most of the yearling sales along the eastern seaboard in a quest to find that special youngster that can win Group 1 races for he and his wife Julie.

Loader, along with his trainer Bernie Hewitt, have travelled from state to state, casting their eye over some of the best-bred stock on offer, never afraid to bid up on yearlings that capture their attention.

Prior to attending last year’s Australian Pacing Gold sales in Sydney, neither Loader or Hewitt had earmarked a colt by Tintin In America out of well-preformed New Zealand mare Rupeeno Cullen for purchase, but he caught their eye when they arrived at the sales and added him to their list.

Loader ended up purchasing the colt for $20,000 and named him Rippin Rupert.

Last Saturday night they were repaid for their confidence when he took out the $50,000 Slingsby Holdings Sapling Stakes at Tabcorp Park Menangle.

“He was offered for sale by Yirribee Stud and looked an absolute treat,” said Hewitt.

“He certainly caught my eye and after I went over him, I really liked the way he was put together.

“And after consulting with Wayne, we agreed to bid on him.
“Wayne knew I had my heart set on the colt, so he kept bidding until he secured him, paying what now seems to be a bargain price.

“To make the purchase extra special, Wayne and Julie invited another of my loyal owners Lex Crosby into the partnership and they are already having a great time with him.

“His effort in the Sapling Stakes last week was nothing short of brilliant.

“My son Jason drove him perfectly and he travelled well during the race.

“When a run presented, Jason shot him through the gap, and he proved too good, despite his big odds.”

Rippin Rupert will contest heat two of the Gold Crown this evening at Bathurst and although he has drawn awkwardly on the inside of the second line, Hewitt remains confident the horse can overcome the adversity and qualify for next Friday night’s feature.

Seven heats of the Bathurst Gold Crown will be run tonight, along with the Lion Nathan Smooth Satin Pacing Cup and the TAB Trotters Cup.

To view the fields for Bathurst on Friday night click here.

By Michael Dumesny for HRNSW