The time and patience taken with Bennett Racing 5yo Baraqiel is certainly paying off now when the 5yo made it 2 from 2 winning again at Pakenham last Thursday night. The 5yo’s history is well documented as is his late start to racing but gee hasn’t that time and patience paid off which the gelding delivering in spades on the potential he had shown from early days.
On paper Baraqiel looked a moral and that’s how Ben Allen rode him. Jumping well, he rolled forward, slowed the tempo noticeably, then rushed home from the 400m to win comfortably. All seemed pretty simple but there were a few moments in the straight where he looked like he might be in a bit of trouble. Firstly, Matawai looked to issue a serious challenge at the 300m and Ben had to ask the big fella for his best effort. When he went into overdrive, he ducked in towards the fence and then ran out again, changing strides a few times as the lightly raced 5yo still showed he is learning.
As stated, the first 800m was run pretty sedately, 4.92lens worse than standard from the 1200-800m then 1.02lens slower from the 800-400m. Baraqiel then rushed home the last 400m 6lens better than standard. Also noteworthy, Baraqiel’s last 400m was 2nd fastest of the meeting and last 200m 3rd fastest of the meeting. Further emphasising his speed, his top speed of 62.96kms/ph was fastest of meeting.
This 5yo Gelding looks the real deal – which will only be proven when he continues to step up in grade. I think he will be better riding the speed rather than making it and being left in front a long way from home is not his best recipe at this stage. Still new to the game and will only get better with his race craft. What is undeniable is his raw talent and speed – which should take him to a much higher level than a Class 1. Exciting horse on the way up.
Baraqiel was a 150k purchase from th 2020 Magic Millions Yearling Sale from his breeders the famous Arrowfield Stud. He is a ¾ brother to this years Gr1 AJC Oaks winner Autumn Angel. Certainly bred in the purple Baraqiel has an envious record now of 2 starts, 2 – 0 – 0 $42,625.Congratulations to all owners in Baraqiel and thankyou to Leon & Troy Corstens and their Teams for all the hard work and patience they have taken with Baraqiel.