Class Prevails for Le Romain in Show County Quality
Le Romain was too good for his rivals in the Show County Quality. Photo: Steve Hart

Class Prevails for Le Romain in Show County Quality

Multiple Group 1 champion Le Romain has added to his outstanding first-up record by easily winning the Group 3 Show County Quality (1200m) at Royal Randwick this afternoon.

The Hard Spun gelding was charged with carry 61kgs this afternoon but his class edge was undeniable ahead of the Show County Quality, and he did his chances of success no harm when jumping well and landing in an ideal position on the rail, just off the pace of early leader Condor Heroes.

Holding his position on the fence as the field turned for home, jockey James McDonald was offered a mouth-watering run on the inside of his rivals and used is perfectly; moving to the fore of the field and locking in a fierce sprint battle with Siege Of Quebec but ultimately proving too good.

McDonald was confident in the horse’s ability and was pleased to claim the Group 1 prize, having partnered D’Argento to third in the Winx Stakes forty minutes earlier.

“It was easy-peasy, but I tell you what, when you ride horses like these that are push-button, he’s been around the traps and he’ll do it himself,” McDonald said.

“He knows what he’s doing and he’s a pleasure to ride, that’s for sure.

“You couldn’t rule him out, he’s a tough old horse if he did end up getting a slot (in The Everest). He’s been there and done it and measured up with the best sprinters in Australia.”

Trainer Kris Lees was pleased with Le Romain’s first-up performance and echoed McDonald’s sentiments regarding a possible berth in the $10 million The Everest.

“He can take a run as he’s gotten a bit older, but he’s coming off that winter preparation where he was off a long break,” Lees said.

“It’s really rewarding for all the staff to see him win a race.

“If it happens it happens (The Everest). There’s some nice races either side and he could end up back in an Epsom, so one run at a time but really good to see him win today.”

Four-year-old Trapeze Artist remains the $4.20 early favourite in The Everest betting.