Flying Spur Debutant Sizzles in Hong Kong
Makybe Diva’s former trainer David Hall looks to have a potential star on his hands in the shape of Taverner, a brilliant debut winner of the Foshan Handicap (1000m) at Sha Tin on Sunday.
An Australian bred son of Flying Spur, Taverner sat on the speed throughout before bursting clear about a furlong from home and recording an outstanding win.
With Brett Prebble aboard, the four-year-old stopped the clock in a slick 56.48 seconds – three and three quarter lengths clear of his rivals and he did it all while being eased down in the final 50 metres.
Classic Navigator and Perfect Fit both tried hard, but there were no match for the winner.
Taverner was selected and purchased from the draft of Palmaday Stud by the Hong Kong Jockey Club. He cost $170,000 at the 2007 Magic Millions Yearling Sale at the Gold Coast.
He was then snapped up by owner Sidney Chui at the Hong Kong International Sale.
Taverner looms as another top prospect for Danehill’s Golden Slipper winning son Flying Spur.
The Arrowfield Stud based star, who was the Champion Australian Sire of the 2006-07 season, is best known in Hong Kong through the exploits of his star sprinting son Inspiration.
