RIP Araldo

Ballymore Stables wish to thank everyone who has been so kind with their messages of condolence after the premature death of our beloved Araldo at Flemington on Tuesday.

A much admired horse who captured the hearts of everyone at the stable from the second he stepped off the plane from Europe, Araldo was a particularly handsome horse whose personality and attitude impressed us all.

“He was a horse who really caught the eye and he had just a great temperament,” said Michael Moroney.

“He was a lovely horse to do anything with and quite amazing for a seven-year-old stallion.”

“He had it all in front of him and we were already planning a crack at next year’s Melbourne Cup but sadly it was not to be.”

Described by Ballymore staff as “a beautiful gentleman” and “one of the nicest natured horses I have worked with” Araldo was paid the ultimate tribute by his devoted handler Matt Hoysted who described him as “my best mate.”

We head to Oaks Day with three runners, two of those – Asadauskaite and Postnthyme lining up in the opening event, the 7News Plate.

Resuming with an eye-catching third after a slow beginning at Mornington on October 21, the lightly raced Asadauskaite steps up from 1500m to 1700m and despite carrying top weight looks nicely placed.

“She ran a terrific race first up,” Moroney enthused, “and the run has tightened her up nicely.”

Describing Asadauskaite as “a lovely strong mare,” Moroney noted that the stable has enjoyed a great deal of success with the Pentire mare – and this is another of the breed highly regarded.

“We thought she was a live chance in the Queensland Oaks but all the travelling just caught up with her at the end of that preparation.”

A spell in Queensland ensued and Asadauskaite has looked all the stronger this time in.

Postnthyme also ran extremely well first up – a game second over 1400m at Cranbourne in mid-October. She too is suited by a rise in distance.

“She also came over from New Zealand for the Queensland Oaks but we weren’t happy with her so she went for a spell instead.”

“She is a not a very big mare but she quality and very talented.”

Our third Oaks Day runner Present Arms takes his place in the seven race, the Swisse Wellness Trophy.

Gaining a run as emergency, the Zabeel gelding was very strong late second up at Geelong recently and he has done well since.

“He has drawn a bit of a tricky gate (16) but Flemington will really suit him.”

“It is good prize money and certainly worth a crack.”