Week to remember for Universal Ruler

Military Ruler made it a week to remember for Universal Ruler at Belmont on Saturday.

The Scenic Lodge resident will be crowned Sunspeed’s champion freshman after siring three juvenile winners in a row – Rebel King last Saturday, Rule To Wyn on Wednesday and Military Ruler in the Westspeed Noms Hcp (1400m) on Saturday.

Military Ruler (2g Universal Ruler – General’s Delight by General Nediym) firmed from $5 into a $3.50 favourite after an unlucky debut when fourth to Halo Express on June 25.  “He’s still raw and made a few mistakes first-up,” trainer Darren McAuliffe said.  “He’s a big, strong chestnut and there’s a lot to like about him.”

“I think the world of Universal Ruler.  I bought at the Magic Millions and broke him in as a yearling.  He was a Group 3 winner and now he’s sired 3 winners in 7 days.”

McAuliffe prepares Military Ruler for Impressive Racing owner Kevin Berry and a large syndicate of family and friends including his father and uncle.  He is the first foal of a half-sister to Singapore winner Super Captain (Flying Pegasus) and Northam winner Miss Delish (Stravinsky).

Their dam General’s Delight has a yearling filly by Universal Ruler but missed to Patronize last year.

Universal Ruler (Scenic) has sired the winners of 7 juvenile races this season for prizemoney exceeding $350,000.  He’s sixth on the Australian first-season premiership behind Hunter Valley stallions I Am Invincible, Denman, Duporth, Medaglia d’Oro and All American.

Military Ruler’s stablemate Rebel King was tipped out for a spell after his most recent victory at Belmont and McAuliffe will bring him back for a spring campaign starting with the LR Belgravia Stakes at Ascot in October.

Scenic Lodge will stand Universal Ruler for a $3,850 (inc gst) fee this year.