Swettenham Stud sire Host (Chi) produced a frontline candidate for the spring classics when Philippi flew home to win the Sportingbet Hcp (1500m) at Moonee Valley on Saturday.
Trainer Mick Kent is talking up a start for Philippi in the G1 Victoria Derby on November 3. “He’s bred to run 2000 metres but I think he will get to the Derby distance,” Kent claimed. “He’s got the right temperament and is nice and relaxed.”
Philippi (3c Host – Soorena by Encosta De Lago) made it two-from-two after winning on debut at Mornington last month. “He’s still a bit raw,” Kent admitted. “But he’s got a lovely action and is really progressing this time in.”
Kent has nominated Philippi for the G1 Caulfield Guineas but indicated his next start on the Victoria Derby trail will be in the Listed UCI Stakes (1800m) at Flemington on October 6.
Philippi is raced by Rick Jamieson who also bred world champion Black Caviar at Gilgai Farm in Nagambie. His Host colt is from a winning half-sister to sprinter-miler Philda (Secret Savings) who won 12 races in Melbourne up to 1600m.
Jamieson sold Black Caviar through Swettenham’s draft at the 2008 Inglis Melbourne Premier Sale and he’s been very keen on Philippi from the time he was a foal. “Rick reckons Host will develop into a very successful stallion,” Swettenham owner Adam Sangster said. “And Soorena is due to foal to him again any day now.”
Host (Chi) is a Group 1 winning son of champion sire Hussonet and Jamieson believes he will nick particularly well with mares by Sir Tristram, Encosta de Lago and Red Ransom.
Besides Philippi, Host has also sired promising winners Flying Hostess and Hosting in recent weeks and that has triggered renewed interest from breeders. “We are just about to close off his $5,000 (inc gst) early-bird service fee,” Sangster added. “It will then rise back to $7,500 (inc gst).”
Broodmare owners can contact Sangster for further details on 0418 543 633 or nominations manager Chris Belli on 0417 514 552.
– Karl Patterson
PHILIPPI
Host colt powers home at Moonee Valley
Photo / Vin Lowe