Southern Legend has continued his impressive run of form at Rosehill Gardens this afternoon; making a successful transition to black type racing with success in the Listed The Sebring (1200m).

Southern Legend overcame a talented field to win The Sebring at Rosehill Gardens. Photo: Steve Hart

Southern Legend’s chances of success in The Sebring took a big boost earlier this weekend when he was allocated the ideal barrier 5, and he made the most of the draw when jumping well and settling in a good position within the talent-rich field, on the fence.

Rounding onto the final straight with plenty to do, jockey Tim Clark threaded the needle between runners with the gelding and was a passenger as the horse accelerated to the line to post a third career win in only his fifth start.

Clark delivered a perfectly-timed performance aboard Southern Legend to win The Sebring but was quick to lay all the praise on the quality of the three-year-old.

“He’s got a great will to win and I think we saw that today,” Clark said after crossing the line.

“It was a big step up for him today because there was some pretty decent three-year-olds in the race but he was too good for them.

“We’re really proud of him, he’s come a long way and it’s great to ride a winner for Les on a day like today.

“Even though he’s only had three runs he’s been up for a long time. He was ready to go about a month before he had his first start, we were just waiting for a dry track.”

Trainer Les Bridge was thrilled with Southern Legend’s performance to win The Sebring and confirmed he will now return to the paddock before returning with a view towards further black type success.

“What can I say, you just raise the bar and he’s been in work for a while but I can visualise him winning a really nice race later,” Bridge said.

“We cscratched him three or four times and he’s been up for about six months, so he’ll go out for a spell now and we’ll pick out a nice race when he comes back.”

Southern Legend began his racing career under the guidance of spring king Joe Pride, but remains undefeated in three starts since transferring to the care of Bridge in spring.

Open an account and bet with Ladbrokes.com.au to take advantage of the best odds on all races during 2016 Golden Slipper Day!

2016 The Sebring Results