Symi (Aus) (Fastnet Rock {Aus}), a 3-year-old full-sister to 2017 G1 Blue Diamond heroine Catchy (Aus), was a debut winner in the third race (chart) at Canterbury on Wednesday, finishing a head better than Misteed (Aus) (Exceed And Excel {Aus}). Second choice in the wagering at 4-1, the bay seized the advantage a few jumps from the gate in the 1250-metre race, but came under pressure rounding the bend. She was tackled by a rival to her outside 300 metres from home, but dug in as several rivals were letting down farther out in the course. Her winning margin decreased with every stride as the line neared, but Symi squeaked under the wire in front, covering the distance in 1:14.20. It was the first win for hoop Tommy Berry since he returned from Hong Kong.
“She's untapped but still pretty timid and shy,” Berry said to Racing And Sports. “She gave me a great feel in a trial although she did a bit wrong.
Added co-trainer Michael Hawkes, “The ride won the race. She jumped great and credit to Tommy he got her into a rhythm. She will improve and she's on her way. She's a blue blood and it's good to see her start out this way.”
Trained by Michael, Wayne and John Hawkes, the A$700,000 graduate of the 2017 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale bears the silks of Alan Bell. Bred by Joy and Sam Jenkins in New South Wales and raised at Coolmore, Symi's dam is the G1 Schweppes The Thousand Guineas bridesmaid Cats Whisker (Aus) (Fusaichi Pegasus) who produced a juvenile full-brother to the winner and a yearling filly by Pierro (Aus). The 2-year-old sold for A$500,000 at the Inglis Easter Yearling Sale to Lindsay Park Racing and Andrew Williams Bloodstock.
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