Navalha Nails the Win

A winner earlier in the season, Navalha (5 g Sebring - Afiado, by Encosta de Lago) returned to his best for victory in the $14,000 Carters “Trade Leaders Now Online” Rating 65 1700 metres on 7 July at Awapuni (poly-track).

After showing improvement for second on the same course three weeks beforehand, in the Rating 65 1400 metres, Navalha improved his position to three back inner nearing the 600m, travelled well for rider Michael McNab turning for home and once sighting daylight, he made up the leeway strongly.

It was patient handling by the Champion Jockey, who is set to retain his title again this season, while the manner of the victory suggested Navalha had advanced nicely for his last start effort.

“It's good that he's handling the poly-track surface so well and it's always good to win races for Fortuna Racing, who are great supporters of the stable, and I think he's got more wins in him too,” said trainer Mark Walker, who claimed another victory (195^th) in a record-breaking season.

Owned by Fortuna Navalha Syndicate (Mgr: John Galvin), Navalha registered a fourth among three starts in N.S.W., before Galvin purchased from an Inglis Online Auction, and his first two starts in NZ resulted in consecutive wins over 1200 metres.

Initially a $475,000 yearling purchase by James Harron Bloodstock at the 2019 Gold Coast Yearling Sale, Navalha was picked up by Galvin for $27,500. 

“He's a horse that has performed well against good horses at Premier level and it's great to see him back in winning form for his owners,” Galvin said.

“He won his first two races when he came to New Zealand, but became unsound and had a long period away from the track. 

“Being an off the pace style runner has worked against him sometimes, but Michael (McNab) gave him a lovely ride and it was a strong effort under 60kg.”

Navalha was strapped by Kohen Collett. 

Photo credit - www.raceimages.co.nz