Dubai: Australian handler John Shea has heaped praise on Godolphin colt Complacent following his stunning victory in the Group 2 Chelmsford Stakes at Royal Randwick on Saturday.
Having what was only his second start in over two years due to injury issues, the son of Authorized demonstrated his well-being when eclipsing a strong field to win the $250,000 (Dh918,000) contest
“He is a great horse, you don’t need me to tell you that, you only have to look at his record,” O’Shea told the Daily Telegraph. “Hopefully we can keep him sound and I’m sure that’s not the last win he’ll have this season.”
The winner led throughout under Sam Clipperton and scored by one-and-a-quarter lengths from Kermadec with Royal Descent one-and-a-half lengths away third.
O’Shea’s second runner, Hartnell, finished fourth.
A winner of the 2013 Spring Champion Stakes, Complacent broke down after running second in the Victoria Derby (G1).
“We have worked on this horse for two years,” O’Shea said. “He still wants to be a racehorse and it’s very rewarding for everyone involved.”
The trainer revealed that Complacent is likely to have his next start in the Hill Stakes (2000m) at Royal Randwick in two weeks.
Clipperton said Complacent began so well he was left with no option but to take up the front-running role.
“At the furlong (200m) I could sense them there to challenge, but to my horse’s credit he fought them off it was a very impressive win.”
Despite the defeat Hartnell’s rider James McDonald was bullish and said: “He went brilliant. Wait until you see him over 2000m though, it will be hard to beat him.”
