Kitty Okay impressed onlookers at Kembla Grange on Thursday, powering to a three-length victory in the $45,000 Maiden Plate (1200m).
Amy McLucas was in the saddle as the 4YO Headwater mare showcased good early speed before running away from her rivals to the delight of favourite punters.
Racing on her home track, Kitty Okay had good support, starting $2.70, and Bateup suggested punters had recognised her upside in what turned out to be a good first-up assignment.
“It probably wasn’t stable money, and it wasn’t the strongest maiden, but she did have some nice form behind her from last preparation, and she did trial nicely,” Bateup said.
“She has always shown ability, and the map was set up nicely for her despite the outside alley, and really, when she went forward, it was an easy watch, and she never looked in doubt.”
Kitty Okay headlines a nice crop of up-and-coming horses in the Kembla Grange stable, with plenty of maideners knocking on the door of their first win, including Lindos, Brundee Tom, Sablonneuse, Rubilace, Edorado, Elle Tee, Hussy La Vista, and Frosted Amour.
“We do have a big team of maideners that are in the same position, with some that have been to the trials, or some that have had starts,” Bateup said.
“There are a few there, and they’re horses we have been very patient with, and given plenty of time.
“Kitty Okay is a 4YO now, and she is still a preparation away from being fully furnished, and she’ll thicken up and strengthen each prep.
“It’s a bit like Liamena Avenue, who won his maiden recently, and he has the same sire (Headwater) as Kitty Okay.
“They have just taken a bit of time, but we’re seeing good things on the track now.”
Bateup is excited to see her young horses hitting the track over a busy few months ahead, and she touched on four horses she expects to go through the grades.
“Kitty Okay is the one we knew had a lot of ability, and she’s already demonstrated that,” Bateup said.
“Brundee Tom is knocking on the door, and Sablonneuse returns soon, and they are both by Sandbar, and should get better over more ground.
“Frosted Amour, who will have her first start over the Bega carnival, is one we are really excited about as well.”
It is certainly an exciting time for Theresa Bateup Racing, who will have runners (Direct Fire and Master Riley) at Warwick Farm on Monday, and up to 16 runners at the Bega Cup two-day carnival on Saturday and Sunday.
Direct Fire will be on the back-up when attempting to defend his title in the Big Dance qualifying $80,000 Bega Cup (1600m) on Sunday, along with stablemate Master Riley.
Theresa sponsors multiple races over the carnival and will have an owner’s marquee.
To get involved, click here.
Words: Jeff Hanson
Image: Bradley Photos