Zoustar’s progressive son Growing Empire asserted his dominance over the juveniles in the G3 Breeders’ S. at Morphettville on Saturday.
The Ciaron Maher-trained colt, in the bottle green silks of Yulong, despite showing some signs of inexperience was too classy for his opponents in the 1200-metre feature.
Jumping from barrier 11, with Mark Zahra in the saddle, Growing Empire was posted wide through the first half of the race before Zahra elected to push the colt forward to take up the lead.
Growing Empire, burst away the pack to win by 4.5l from Flattered (Yes Yes Yes) and Flyer (Exceedance).
Speaking to Racing.com, Maher said, “I am not surprised by the style of the victory; Growing Empire is a very good colt.
“He’ll probably have a breather now and get ready for the spring. He had a few tricks we had to iron out earlier in his career, I think he’s pretty progressive.”
Growing Empire is a veteran of three races, winning twice. With both victories coming at stakes level, having earlier claimed the Listed Valley Pearl S.
The colt is the second foal from the Snitzel mare Miles Of Krishan, who won five races. Her first foal, Dancing Alone (I Am Invincible) won six races and has been placed in the G3 Furphy Sprint.
Bred by P Hodgens, Werrett Bloodstock Pty Ltd, Encompass International, Growing Empire was offered by Vinery Stud at the 2023 Inglis Australian Easter Yearling Sale where Yulong paid $700,000 to secure him.
