Landmark weekend for Woodside Park

Woodside Park owner Mark Rowsthorn celebrated the relaunch of his Victorian stud with a landmark win at Geelong on Friday and a Group 3 at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

Wellingtons (Grey Swallow) carried Rowsthorn’s red and gold silks to a narrow victory in the Geelong Function Centre Maiden Hcp (1300m) before Howmuchdoyouloveme (Written Tycoon) added his name to the winning roll-call in the Healy Stakes (1200m).

Rowsthorn has installed champion sire Written Tycoon and Redoute’s Choice newcomer Elzaam as foundation stallions for Woodside Park’s 2013 roster.

Caulfield trainer Luke Oliver was proud as punch when Wellingtons broke through at Geelong.  “Rest assured, Mark and his team will be winning with more high-profile horses than Wellingtons,” Oliver predicted.  “But the first winner is always special and this horse will improve next prep.

“Woodside’s property up at Tylden has to be seen to be appreciated.  We are thrilled to be part of their plans and look forward to seeing the new colours saluting in town.”

Howmuchdoyouloveme had jockey Nash Rawiller reaching for superlatives after he shouldered 60kg to a determined victory in the G3 Healy Stakes.  “He’s an amazing horse to ride and has an enormous stride.  They all had their chance to win but he’s blessed with a tremendous will-to-win.”

The Written Tycoon four year-old won the LR Lightning Hcp at Eagle Farm earlier this month and will aim for a black-type hat-trick in the LR Ramornie Hcp next month.  He  won the 2012 Ramornie and a successful defence of the Grafton sprint will send his earnings to $650,000.

Woodside Park will stand Written Tycoon for a $13,750 (inc gst) service fee this year.  Elzaam is available at $10,000 (inc gst).

– Karl Patterson