The cliche “turned the corner” is often overused, but Eleven Seconds (stablename Shamus) is a classic example of perseverance delivering results. Shamus always had potential but his early results were indicative of a horse with problems and it has taken a lot of work and patience from the Gangemi Racing team to identify and treat his issues. Well yesterday’s win at Ascot over 1800m was his 3rd win in his last 6 starts (incl. a 2nd and a 3rd) and took his earnings to just over $114,000 from just 14 starts.
Brilliantly handled by regular jockey Brad Parnham, Shamus was caught out 3 and 4 wide for the first 800m from his wide draw. He eventually got outside the leader and a good pace had meant that he was entitled to die off down the straight, however, Brad kept at him and he just keep kicking even when the favourite (with leading jockey William Pike aboard) loomed up with 100m to go. Shamus showed a huge heart and will to win, to hold on by a nose in a great change of luck in the photos for the stable!!
It’s a great partnership between Shamus and Brad Parnham and we hope to see them out and leading all the way in another staying event at soon!