The owners of enigmatic Shalaa gelding Aurolaa were finally given something to cheer about when he took out the Evolve Interiors Maiden Plate at Kyneton on Monday.
With a familiar face in Damien Thornton back in the saddle and the blinkers applied, Aurolaa was able to find the front with the minimum of fuss. Rated perfectly throughout, he kicked strongly on the bend and put the race beyond doubt quickly, running away the winner in emphatic fashion by 4.5 lengths.
Throughout his short career so far, Aurolaa has been a source of frustration given his talent on the training track had not been translating to wins on the racetrack. He was gelded after two starts which has certainly helped him to concentrate on the task at hand, but with the application of some headgear and more racing to bring him on, he was able to show his best today.
We will look to continue to take Aurolaa through the grades to allow him to build some confidence and continue to work on his craft which should see him reach the potential we have always thought he had. He looks a horse that will be suited stepping up to a mile and can certainly make his presence felt up in grade.
Congratulations to the patient and understanding ownership group and we look forward to seeing where we can get to with this horse this preparation and beyond.
