EUROZONE MARE IRIDESSA WINS

Bred and owned by Kevin & Julie Taylor, Iridessa (5 m Eurozone – Zennita, by Commands) recorded a deserved victory in the Maiden 1600 metres on 23 September at Matamata.

A beautiful big mare that presented in striking condition, Iridessa had produced three thirds up to 2000 metres on dead footing and ideally drawn (2) she was able to take up the leading role. After travelling easily, she found a two-length advantage to the 200m and won comfortably by one and a quarter lengths.

On Dead5 footing and ridden by Shaun McKay, Iridessa ran the 1600 metres in 1:37.7, last 600m in 36.9, and shortened in betting from $12.00 & $3.40 fixed to pay $9.60 & $2.50 on the tote.

“She had sore foot for awhile which held her up this time in, but she’s a mare we’ve been patient with and better track conditions helped,” said co-trainer Pam Gerard.

“Shaun (McKay) has been really loyal to her and loves her. It’s really good for him because he helps me out heaps.”

From a strong female family, Iridessa is by Eurozone, one of the first stallions to stud by ill-fated sire of sires Northern Meteor (Encosta De Lago).

“We raced the mother (Zennita) in Australia, but she got injured,” said Julie Taylor. “Zoustar, another Northern Meteor stallion was A$40,000 and she didn’t warrant that cost, and Eurozone was a top racehorse.

“Pam (Gerard) has always had plenty of confidence in Iridessa, but she is a big mare and needed time to mature. Today is just amazing and a thrill to win.

“The grand-dam Talista raced here (NZ) and as Talista Belle in Australia. She won seven and was stakes placed. We bought her off Terry Jarvis, off the track, and we’ve sold just under $1 million in foals from her at Karaka.”

Iridessa was strapped by Scott Magee.