Talented five-year-old Alfa Oro (NZ) (Bachelor Duke) returned from a brief break to score at Moonee Valley on Friday night, when leading throughout in the 955m race.

The son of Bachelor Duke won four races in succession last campaign and picked up where he left off for trainer Matt Laurie, who has been patient in his handling of the quality galloper, who suffered a life-threatening injury as an early three-year-old.

“It was pretty easy in the end and I am happy to keep his winning record going for the moment but we’ll be happier to step up to black-type now.

“He was the best horse in the race, for sure. I just had visions of horses spearing forward and us being trapped on the fence.”

Laurie has always held Alfa Oro in high regard from the moment he purchased the Regal Farm graduate for $240,000 at the 2017 New Zealand Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale and should he continue his winning form, the handsome galloper could be seen in the Gr.1 Manikato Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley on October 23. 

“That was part of the plan also to give him a look around the Valley. Should he get the job done next start then maybe there’s a race here further on that might suit. He’s a true racehorse.

“There’s the Schillaci Stakes (Gr.2, 1100m) and perhaps that could lead to a Manikato, should we dream. Why not? He’s doing everything very well.”

Bred by The Oaks Stud, Alfa Oro is out of the Fastnet Rock mare Fastnet Lady and is a half-brother to multiple Group Three winner Home By Midnight (who raced as Five To Midnight in New Zealand).

-NZ Racing News