Fulcrum (black cap) digs deep to hold Henry Higgins on his outside (Pic: JC Photos)
The versatility of the superb champion producing stallion Captain Al was demonstrated again when his lightly raced son Fulcrum dug deep and showed serious stamina reserves when winning the R150 000 Listed Java Handicap run over 2450m at Turffontein on Saturday, under a great ride by young Wesley Marwing.
The fourteen horse staying handicap had always had an open look about it and punters were diving for some early cover, with a minimum Pick 6 dividend showing of R30. The pool in the exotic fell way short of projections at a nett R3 194 475.
Apprentice Wesley Marwing rode the winner for his uncle-trainer, Weiho, and he had him withing striking distance for much of the race as Shimmering Gem led Savage Wind.
When he hit the front at the 400m, there must have been grimaces on the face of popular owner Dayalan Chinsammy and supporters.
But things worked out well as Fulcrum resisted the late challenge of the 33-1 Henry Higgins in a tight finish, with Arch Rival storming home.
Marwing’s left handed ride, which switched to the right in the final 100m, worked well and he held on to win by a short head on the 25-1 outsider in a time of 154,40 secs.
Arch Rival pipped J’s Outsider for third.
Wesley Marwing, who doesn’t get many chances, has won 2 from 3 on the gelding and is forming a good association with him.
“He is an improving and talented horse. Thanks to my Uncle who was confident that he would stay.”
An emotional Weiho Marwing was over the moon.
“Thanks to my staff and I really do put them under pressure. Wes is going to get my support – this was a long time coming. I told him this morning the blood has got to come out some time! It is an emotional moment for all of us,” he said.
Fulcrum was a R200 000 National Yearling Sale purchase and took his stakes tally to R290 550 as he scored his first feature win.
He has now won four times, with two places from his nine starts.
He was bred by Willempie Engelbrecht jnr and is by Captain Al out of the twice-winning Badger Land mare, Land Of Hope.
