Boomer Bloodstock farewelled one Group 1 winner and celebrated another a world away this week.
Craig & McCall Rounsefell reflected on the highs and lows of their ride with iron-horse Obviously who has bowed out after an amazing career from his base in California. The Irish-bred son of Choisir won his first Group 1 in the 2013 Shoemaker Mile when trained by McCall’s father Mike Mitchell.
After Mitchell’s death, assistant-trainer Phil D’Amato took over the reins and prepared him to win last year’s G1 Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint at Santa Anita. “Not a sad day but a happy one as the horse who has done so much for our family,” the couple tweeted. “A warrior retires sound aged 9.”
Obviously was purchased by Rounsefell for 130,000 guineas at the 2011 Tattersalls October Sale and he banked over $2.30 million for owners Joe Scardino & Tony Fanticola.
“I had him 90% fit and almost ready to go, but we found some bone bruising coming out of his last work,” D’Amato confirmed. “It’s a very minor injury but, at his age, we decided it’s time.
“Obviously will live out his days a happy horse. That’s what he deserves.”
In Western Australia, Boomer buy Scales of Justice is on track to defend his G1 Railway Stakes crown at Ascot on Saturday, November 25.
Scales of Justice (Not A Single Doubt) signed off a short winter campaign with Group 3 victories in the Hyperion Stakes (1600m) on June 17 and Strickland Stakes (2000m) on July 1. “He runs great sectionals and has such a tremendous cruising speed,” trainer Lindsey Smith explained. “Melbourne is also on the agenda after our summer carnival.”
Smith mentioned the G1 Australian Cup (2000m) at Flemington in March as a viable target over east. He won the 2002 Australian Cup with Old Comrade.
Rounsefell snapped up Scales of Justice for $180,000 from the Millford Thoroughbreds draft at the 2014 Inglis Melbourne Premier Sale. The 4yo gelding has earned over $1.35 million for owners Chris Wells & Bill Andrews with his best seasons still ahead.
Federation of Bloodstock Agents Australia (FBAA) was formed in 1988 to maintain, improve and develop the standards, status and services of bloodstock agents throughout Australia. Its members operate with the utmost integrity and professionalism and are bound by the strict Industry Code of Conduct.
The list of FBAA members can be viewed at: www.bloodstockagents.com.au
BC WARRIOR
McCall & Craig Rounsefell farewell Obviously