The money came late for Lean Mean Machine, and punters walked away happy as the $15 roughie saluted in emphatic fashion during Saturday’s Run to The Rose (1200m) at Rosehill.
With all eyes on Jonker and the ever-speedy Graff down the straight, Chris Waller’s three-year old exploded between the two, pinching a last-second victory at the line to record an impressive first up victory.
Tye Angland and Lean Mean Machine.
“He’s definitely the best looking horse in the yard, I think he performed that way as well” jockey Tye Angland told Sky Racing immediately following the race.
With the focus firmly on next fortnight’s Golden Rose (1400m) favourite Graff, Lean Mean Machine made full-use of his mid-field draw, sitting two off the speed to show real guts and determination in the final furlong of the race.
For the son of Zoustar, it was an encouraging run as the Golden Rose second-elect has now firmed into $8.00 ahead of the race on September 22.
“He’s a very good horse, as we saw with his dad Zoustar he came back as a three-year old and just went to a whole new level, and it looks like this boy has done the same” trainer Chris Waller told Sky Racing.
The eventual plan for Lean Mean Machine looks to be longer distances as he continues his prep. Nominated for the $2 million Group Caulfield Guineas (1600m) and the $5 million Ladbrokes Cox Plate (2040m), the three-year old figures as one to watch throughout the Spring.
“He’s filled out that little bit more since he’s had his trial, he’s all muscle, great attitude, awesome race horse” said Angland after Saturday’s win.
For the likes of Graff, there’s no shame in runner-up. Jumping from barrier 13 always proved tricky for Kris Lees’ future superstar who finished just 0.8L behind Lean Mean Machine.
As far as Waller is concerned though, there’s no looking past Angland’s ride.
“He’s a sexy looking horse, he’s well named” Angland said.
Tye’s been in love with him since he’s been involved with him, he rode him in a trial here one day and he said I don’t want to get on any other horse in the spring, get me on this horse, and he was right”.
The duo now hope to record a convincing second-up victory in two week’s time.
