The long journey with Urulu to her first win--an owner’s perspective

The journey as a yearling from New Zealand, was to Peter Moody’s stable for 12 months without a racing debut. In January, 2014 she was transferred to Redgum Racing.

Her bumpy ride culminated on Friday 13th of February 2015 at Moe in a 3 way photo finish win in a 2400m Maiden. Typical of the way Urulu likes to do things…not the easy way! To say that Urulu has been a difficult horse seems to be an understatement. Just ask all her patient and brave handlers and jockeys---such as Bernie, Brady, Rowan, the horse whisperer Craig and of course Big John.

Her usual jockey Jarrod Todd always seems unfazed as he heads out on to the course under the Clerk’s close grip. Some of the owners live too far away to see her in action, but they have all had faith that her breeding would see her win.

On that “superstitious” day Urulu was at peace with herself, her hormones and the world. With Brady as strapper she paraded well and headed to the all important barriers. John’s inspired decision to add a barrier blanket must have been the magic ingredient.

In the straight she held her ground in 3rd place but with 10 metres to go she surged forward and won by a nose. In 10 races it’s her first win!

The owners present Cohen Lee, Kel Keegan, Julie Sheldrake and myself Marilyn Anderson now know the wait has been worth it!