Back in the winner’s enclosure for the first time on South African soil, The Equator (IRE) offered a glimpse of the talent that once earned him a Durban July nomination, landing Saturday’s Pinnacle Plate over 1800m at Turffontein with a decisive comeback performance after a below par debut first time out.
Report below from SAHORSERACING.COM.
Under Gavin Lerena, the son of Galileo drifted noticeably in the betting but delivered a resurgent effort, cruising to a two-length victory after hitting the front at the 400m mark. Although he shifted across the track in search of company, he never looked in trouble—fending off the well-fancied King’s Express with some authority. The colt’s relentless gallop echoed the durability often seen in those with Ballydoyle backgrounds.
“I think he enjoyed the long straight here more than Greyville,” said Lerena post-race. “He’ll be even better once the summer grass comes through.”
Trainer Tony Peter, who recently saddled a Grade 1 winner, didn’t hide the expectations surrounding the colt. “I’ve felt pressure before, but not like this,” he admitted. “When I heard he was coming to my yard, I was thrilled.”
Part-owner Willem Ackerman and jockey Gavin Lerena with The Equator. (JC Photos).
Despite this being just a Pinnacle Plate and the field lacking top-end depth, the win felt like a turning point for The Equator. Described as an impressive worker at home, he may finally be on the path to fulfilling his early promise.
Part owner, Nigel Riley confirmed to SAHorseracing.COM that big races are in mind for The Equator. “The Summer Cup then the Met are his targets.”
Bred by Coolmore, The Equator is a blueblood—by Galileo out of the Group 1 producer Quiet Reflection (by Showcasing)—and is a half-brother to top-level performer Lake Victoria. Now owned by Mr. Willem Ackerman and Advocate N. Riley, he was imported to South Africa for future stallion duties at Haversham Stud. On this evidence, he may yet offer more on the racetrack before heading to the breeding shed.