
It is impossible for a racehorse to win its maiden twice, but that is basically what happened to the improving Woodstock.
Trained at Angaston Park by Aaron Bain and Ned Taylor, Woodstock led throughout to easily win a maiden at Clare on Saturday, April 4 by 2-1/4 lengths.
Subsequently, it was discovered a clerical error had been made relating to the claims by the apprentice riders in the event so Woodstock, which was ridden by apprentice Matthew Chadwick, was disqualified as the winner.
Because the error was not the fault of anyone connected to the three-year-old, the first prize of $9900 was paid to connections.
So, trainers Bain and Taylor were able to accept with the gelding at Gawler on Friday in the Kingsford Hotel Maiden (1100m) where the first prize was $12,500.
It was a case of ‘Groundhog Day’ for Woodstock ($3.50 fav) as, with Chadwick again in the saddle, he found the front and raced away from his rivals to win by an increasing 3-1/4 lengths from Emotive ($16 into $7), with first-starter Aliandra ($10), a stablemate of the winner, a half-length away third.
Chadwick was again impressed by Woodstock and believes the gelding, after six starts, was now capable of going through his grades.
“It was a great performance again,” Chadwick said.
“I think he took a lot of benefit from that win at Clare.
“Today he was really switched on and travelled well all the way. When I asked him he really gave a strong kick.
“Hopefully, they don’t find a way to take this one off us.
“He should take even more confidence from today and keep progressing.
Will O’Malley, Racing Manager for Aaron Bain Racing, said it had been good to get a “second maiden” victory for Woodstock.
“He was very dominant today, very similar to Clare. He found the front, controlled the tempo and sprinted away to win with plenty in hand.
“He pulled up super and hardly had a blow. He has continued to improve all preparation.
“There is no reason why he can’t go to town and be competitive over a sprint trip.”