Boutonniere Goes Bang

Given a gorgeous trip in the trail by jockey Michael McNab, Boutonniere (3 g Burgundy - Bouquet, by My Halo) capped a hat-trick of thirds with a deserved victory in the $10,000 A+ Driveways Maiden 1400 metres on 27 December at New Plymouth.

Having recorded two notable efforts for third as a two-year-old, including on debut to twice stakes placed filly Last Sight (Showcasing), Boutonniere had resumed on 5 December with a third on the course over 1100 metres and brought the right all-round form to prove competitive.

“The step up in distance suited him, today,” said racing manager Libby Richards. “He drew the gun gate and had a lovely ride by Michael (McNab). We're really pleased with him.”

After beginning well from barrier one to secure a trailing position, McNab angled clear on straightening, allowing Boutonniere to quicken home with a well-timed finish.

“It was a nice win,” said trainer Jamie Richards. “He'd always threatened to do that and I thought he had good enough form. 

“We've been trying a few different things with him at home. He seems to enjoy being trained out of the sand yard and his eating has improved since being out there. They're individuals and have varying idiosyncrasies so we have to treat them all differently. Being in a yard has also helped alleviate a few muscle cramps and tying up that he's been prone to. 

“Added to that, I thought Michael (McNab) gave him a text book ride and he's a horse on the way up. He's getting stronger and while we won't get too carried away with our expectations at this stage, he's a horse that can keep chipping away if we place him carefully.”

A touch overlooked to start fourth favourite in a solid field, his best return was $8.50 & $2.50 on the TAB fixed odds. On Dead4 footing, he ran the 1400 metres in a respectable 1:23.3.

Owned by the Te Akau Buttonhole Syndicate (Mgr: Karyn Fenton-Ellis MNZM), with a tidy action and conformation, Boutonniere was purchased by Te Akau principal David Ellis for $80,000, from the draft of Phoenix Park, at the 2018 Karaka Book 1 Sale.

Ellis also bought his sire, Burgundy (Redoute's Choice), winner of five stakes' races before his first three two-year-olds to race all won on debut. He also sired New Zealand Bloodstock Filly of the Year Dijon Bleu (ex. Pristino, by More Than Ready) before unfortunately passing away earlier in December with his oldest progeny only five years old. 

“He's another Burgundy that we've won races with and just yesterday (Boxing Day) Burgundy Rose won her second race from five starts for us at Wingatui,” Ellis said.

“This horse is going to win more races, for sure. He does everything right in his races, took natural improvement from his resuming run and no reason why he won't go on with it.

“Burgundy was a beautiful horse, probably the fastest Te Akau has ever trained, and being a half-brother to Darci Brahma (Danehill) he's a sad loss to our breeding industry.”

Boutonniere became the fourth individual winner from his dam Bouquet (My Halo), a mare that showed good speed when winning and previously had three to race for three winners.

Boutonniere was strapped by Baghs Singh.

Photo credit - www.raceimages.co.nz

Back