Rattleshirt Convincingly In Sweden’s Grade 2

As was expected, there were plenty of chances in this week’s Jockey Club Classic – G2 in Sweden, but nothing can be taken away from the winner, Rattleshirt, who triumphed decisively following a superb ride. The evenness of the field behind him can best be judged by the bunching of most of those finishing in the first half. With less than five lengths separating second and seventh, plenty of trainers would be confident that their charges will remain competitive at this level, or even higher.

The problem immediately facing three jockeys was that they new they wanted to lead, but also knew there were a couple of others with similar plans, and so it proved, to the eventual detriment of all three. Northern Wells, out wide in eleven, got the best of the jump, but was unable to move across to the rail. To Die For, from five, and Brabastorm, out of the six gate, kept the leader three wide, as all three cut at each other out in front. Frosting settled perfectly on the fence behind the charge, Libertine beside him, caught three wide with Rattleshirt splitting them half a length behind. Then a break to Ghetto Muppet, Candlepower, Miter Saw and Sea all Star. Sadler’s Prospect and Creepshow settled back towards the rear and Tete Razamanaz slid across and tailed the field.

The order remained largely unchanged until the bottom turn when Rattleshirt began his move. Candlepower noticed the run and went with him. Libertine was trying to go but started feeling the pressure. Ghetto Muppet and Miter Saw were looking some kind of chance, while Tete Razamanaz had given away a dozen lengths, and looked out of it, but was progressively rounding up the horses in front of him.

The early leaders waved the white flag as Rattleshirt cruised by them. Candlepower was closing down the outside, but the leader was holding him while Tete Razamanaz was driving through the field. To the wire and Rattleshirt had a comfortable two lengths to spare  

Candlepower had run a mighty race to best all but the winner

Tete Razamanaz had given away too big a start, but recorded the fastest final sectional.

Miter Saw boxed on valiantly without ever threatening.

Northern Wells had no peace in front, and held on courageously for the final cheque, taking a three way photo from Ghetto Muppet and To Die For.

Brabastorm was third home of the front-running suicide brigade.

Creepshow was a huge disappointment, beaten eight lengths.

Libertine looked a hope in running but faded.

Frosting enjoyed a good run and had no excuses.

Sea all Star and Sadler’s Prospect never fired a shot.

Rattleshirt is a three year son of More Than Ready from the outstanding producer Wester Stormer (Storm Cat / Gone West). This was his fifth win from ten starts and lifts his earnings above $280,000. He ran the 8 furlongs in 1.35.0 and returned a speed rating of 104. His ranking is elevated from # 163 to # 28 following this, his first graded win.

Stormboot2 boasts the most impressive strike rate of 28 wins from 162 races in a stable of two and three year olds. Rattleshirt is the stable’s leading light, while Yellow Demon and Red Chianti are both six figure earners. The trainer had four to the races this week for two winners, the other being Widow’s Watch (Forestry), a two year old filly victorious in her maiden.