NO TROUBLE FOR GREY COLT LINGJUN XIONGFENG

Held in high regard by co-trainer Pam Gerard, Lingjun Xionfeng (3 c The Factor – Harvest Start, by Sebring) won $15,000 Maiden 1600 metres on 2 March at Hastings.

For some time, Gerard had spoken favourably of ability harboured by the grey colt and her considered regard was justified in his manner of victory.

After running home for fifth off interrupted passage in Maiden 3YO 1300 metres on 19 January and notable third in Maiden 1600 metres on 2 February, both at Te Rapa, Lingjun Xiongfeng appeared suited by the tempo, tracked into proceedings from eighth at 600m, and engulfed rivals with consummate ease.

Prior to the race, sponsored by Time Test Boasting 3 Runners in Karaka Million, Gerard suggested winning could give rise to contesting $260,000 Levin Classic (Gr. 1, 1600m) on NZ Oaks Day (19 March) at Trentham.

On Dead4 footing, ridden by Taiki Yanagida, Lingjun Xionfeng ran 1600 metres in 1:36.3, scoring by two and a half lengths, and drifted in betting to return $7.50 & $2.00 on NZ TAB tote.

“He’s a beautiful horse that had been going super in his work as early as September when preparing for a jump out, and always looked good in the coat,” Gerard said. “He gave the riders a really good feel and not too coltish, so pretty good to do anything with.

“Obviously, he was still a little bit green getting to the trials stage and continued developing into a really nice type as his fitness improved. We certainly had a good opinion of him.

“He’s now a big strong colt, put on weight and filled out while in training and thrived, really, as he’s cottoned onto racing.

“It will be a tough assignment stepping up to group one in the Levin Classic, given the quality of horses earmarked for the race, but the way he won today warrants giving it some thought.”

Lingjun Xiongfeng was bought for $40,000 by Amy Feng at 2020 Adelaide Yearling Sale, from draft of Rosden Park, and owned by Mr. Ma Junping, managed by Taniwha Club managing director Alan Fu.

By dual Group 1 winner over 1400 metres in U.S., The Factor (War Front), from mare that placed in three starts and now left two winners. Lingjun Xiongfeng carries Mr Prospector cross through his dam lines.

Stable-mate Lingjun Hero (Spirit of Boom) was successful on 28 December at Rotorua, for same ownership, and races again tomorrow (3 March) at Rotorua.

Lingjun Xiongfeng was strapped by Rathore Singh.