Even-money winners Aztec Ruler and Ruler Rocket didn’t offer punters much value at Belmont on Saturday, nevertheless, they’re two very valuable sons of Scenic Lodge sire Universal Ruler.
Aztec Ruler redeemed himself off a seven-day turnaround to win a duel with Pompey (Xtravagant) in the Mrs Mac’s Hcp (1400m). His hopes of a hat-trick last Saturday were dashed by Ginger Baker who was dropping back from black-type company.
Trainer Stefan Vahala said the 4yo will go for a spell and bet set for a pair of $150,000 provincial goals in the LR Pinjarra Classic (1300m) on Sunday, February 25 and LR Bunbury Stakes (1400m) on Saturday, March 9.
“It was a great run last time but he levelled out over the mile,” Vahala recounted. “Chris (Parnham) gets along so well with him and rode him a treat today. I thought he was going to win easily so he’s probably telling us it’s time for a break.”
Aztec Ruler (Photo / Western Racepix) goes out with a record of 5 wins from 10 starts with earnings of $428,650 that includes Westspeed Bonuses of $155,650. His dam I Love Rubies (Rubiton) is a half-sister to G2 MVRC Crystal Mile winner Testa My Patience (Testa Rossa).
Bred and sold for $40,000 by Quanah Park owners Rene & Trish des Bouvrie at the 2021 Perth Magic Millions, he races for a syndicate managed by Melbourne-based Andrew Biacsi.
Quanah Park-bred graduate Regal Pom (Press Statement) had claimed the first-leg of an interstate double for the Oldbury nursery a half-hour earlier when Regal Pom (Press Statement) scored at Eagle Farm.
Ruler Rocket was good enough to round up his rivals despite a poor getaway in the TABtouch Westspeed Platinum Hcp (1000m). He’s another lightly-raced 4yo with trainer Bruce Watkins winning 3 races in 8 starts for owner-breeder Barry Edwards.
“He had been a nervous type and a handful early on,” Watkins said. “Today was the best he’s been in the enclosure although he had never missed the start before. He relaxed with cover and let down beautifully with the tongue-tie.”
Universal Ruler sired him from Ascot winner Extreme Dreams (Dreamscape). Second-dam She’s All Greek (Spartacus) won 11 sprints in Brisbane and there’s stamina further back with Group 1 winning stayers Mr Prudent (AJC Sydney Cup) and Zamination (AJC Metropolitan).
Scenic Lodge stands Universal Ruler for $7,500 alongside Dash For Cash for $2,000. Service fees (plus GST). For bookings or further information, contact Jeremy Smith on (08) 9571 0155 or 0419 943 356.
