About

We Australians love our horseracing and when it comes to lauding our champion gallopers, past and present, we certainly don’t hold back.

When Crisp was recently inducted into the Australian Racing Hall Of Fame, I thought I’d do a Google search to familiarise myself with his outstanding achievements both here in Australia as well as overseas. Apart from his legendary second placing behind Red Rum in the 1973 English Grand National Steeplechase, I found little else on the rest of Crisp’s career.

Unlike past champions of flat racing, jumps champions of yesteryear appear to be forgotten, and as years turn into decades, so too their memories become more distant. In my opinion, there are five jumps horses in Australia that can arguably be termed ‘Champions’ – Crisp, Redditch, Mosstrooper, Roisel and Redleap. These hugely popular horses of their day carried massive weights over towering obstacles, winning by enormous margins.

They all survived the jumps bar one, Redditch.

This blog has been set-up to remember and acknowledge the deeds of these five champions. I have spent many hundreds of hours researching and piecing together the careers of these great horses. I have listed the details of every one of their career starts over the hurdles and steeple fences with newspaper commentaries of the races, where possible. I have credited the sources of the commentaries that I’ve used. I’ve also included my own writings on events that occurred throughout their jumping careers.

This is my own small way of ensuring that these largely forgotten heroes get their identity back, and that they can be remembered and acknowledged for what they were – Champions.

The great jumpers, Winterset, Pedro's Pride, Sussex & Daimio have also been added to this blog.

Wednesday 24 September 2014

Winterset









            Winterset 
                                                       1935 br g: Son o’Mine – Winter’s Dream
                                                       Owner: Sol Green – 1935 – June 1940
                                                       Trainer: D.J. Price – 1937Mar 1938
                                                       Trainer: R.J. Shaw – Mar 1938 – June 1940
                                                       Colours: Black and white squares, red sleeves and cap

                                                       Owner: L. O’Brien – June 1940 – May 1941
                                                       Trainer:  S. Murphy – June 1940 – May 1941
                                                       Colours: White, black maltese cross and cap

                                                       Owner: 'H.J. Ascot' - May 1941 - Retirement
                                                       Trainer: D.S. McCormick – May 1941 - Retirement                                                      
                                                       Colours: Green and white squares, green sleeves and cap
                                                       Prizemoney: £11,035


                                                  



                                                  
Winterset - L. Meenan

                   
                                      Career Highlights 


                               
                                   WON 16/12/1940 Ascot (V): Delamere Trial Hurdle-2 miles
WON 26/12/1940 Flemington: Shoobra Hurdle-2 miles
WON 1/01/1941 Flemington: New Year Hurdle-2 miles
WON 9/08/1941 Flemington: Arkaringa Hurdle-2 ¼ miles
WON 30/08/1941 Moonee Valley: Paisley Hurdle-2 mile 1f
WON 4/10/1941 Flemington: October Hurdle-2 miles
WON 4/11/1941 Flemington: Cup Steeplechase-2 miles ½ f
WON 8/11/1941 Flemington: J.A. Macleod Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
WON 6/06/1942 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
WON 4/07/1942 Flemington: Kensington Steeple-2 miles ½ f
WON 28/11/1942 Flemington: Williamstown Cup Steeplechase-2 miles
WON 24/04/1943 Flemington: Williamstown: Easter Steeplechase-2 mile ½ f
WON 20/05/1944 Flemington: Spotswood Steeplechase 2 ½ miles
WON 3/06/1944 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
WON 21/10/1944 Caulfield: Wyuna Steeplechase-2 miles 3f 
WON 2/04/1945 Morphettville: Great Eastern Steeplechase-3 miles
WON 2/06/1945 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles

2nd 27/11/1940 Ascot (V): Cranbrook Trial Hurdle-2 miles
2nd 21/12/1940 Moonee Valley: Trial Hurdle-2 miles 1f
2nd 26/07/1941 Moonee Valley: Aberfeldie Hurdle-2miles
2nd 25/07/1942 Moonee Valley: A.V. Hiskens Steeplechase-2 miles 3 ½ f
2nd 24/10/1942 Flemington: Wyuna Steeplechase-2 miles ½ f   
2nd 12/08/1944 Caulfield: Australian Steeplechase-3 ½ miles

3rd 5/10/1940 Flemington: October Hurdle-2 miles
3rd 18/01/1941 Flemington: Hawthorn Hurdle-2 miles
3rd 15/10/1941 Flemington: Oby Hurdle-2 miles
3rd 11/07/1942 Flemington: Grand National Steeplechase-3 miles 1f
3rd 8/07/1944 Flemington: Grand National Steeplechase-3 miles 1f
3rd 11/08/1945 Caulfield: Australian Steeplechase-3 ½ miles
3rd 20/04/1946 Oakbank: Great Eastern Steeplechase-3 ¼ miles



Winterset was owned and bred by wealthy Melbourne businessman Sol Green (1868-1948).
Green was a self-made man, he arrived in Australia from England as a young man in the 1880s with sixpence in his pocket and went on to become, not just the biggest bookmaker in Australia, but one of the country’s wealthiest men.
Green was generous with his wealth, a philanthropist who gave much of his fortune to charities and worthy causes. In 1943, with a gift of £50,000, he established the ‘Sol Green Trust’, a charity that provided homes at cost price and interest-free for ex-serviceman. Hospitals, as well as the poor and needy of both Australia and England also benefited greatly from Green’s generosity.
Sol Green was inducted into the Australian Racing Hall Of Fame in 2002.

Winterset was by Son o’Mine out of Winter’s Dream. Sol Green imported Son o’Mine from England and raced him for just a short time before he broke down and was retired to Green’s Underbank stud at Bacchus Marsh.

Due to what appeared to be a crippling deformity at birth, Winterset was destined to be destroyed shortly after he was foaled. The order to destroy the Son o’Mine foal was never delivered to the stud groom, and in the meantime, the youngster began to out-grow his contorted physical appearance.
By the time he became a yearling, it was apparent that Winterset had developed into a physically fit young horse and there was little doubt that he’d one day carry Sol Green’s famous red, white and black racing colours.

Winterset began his career as a two year old in January 1938 at the Caulfield stables of David Price. Price was seventy years old at the time and had been one of Melbourne’s leading trainers for many years, but in May of that year, ill health ended Price’s career, forcing him into retirement
In his brief time with Price, Winterset had three autumn starts for three unplaced runs, he was then spelled and returned in the spring to the stables of Sol Green’s new trainer, Roy Shaw.

Under Sol Green’s ownership, Winterset raced 28 times for 6 wins, 2 seconds and 1 third, earning his owner £1,106 in prize-money.
As an autumn four year old, Winterset won the Kyneton Cup for Sol Green, but three subsequent city starts saw him fail dismally on each occasion, so Green decided to sell him.

Winterset was bought by bookmaker Leo O’Brien and transferred to the Werribee stables of Steve Murphy. Winterset’s time with O’Brien and Murphy was brief, less than twelve months, but it was during this time that he was schooled over hurdles. At his sixth start as a hurdler, Winterset won the Delamere Trial Hurdle over 2 miles at Ascot. In all, he had 10 starts over the jumps for Leo O’Brien for 3 wins and 4 placings with earnings of £1,140.
It seemed a very strange decision by Leo O’Brien to sell such a promising jumper after owning him for such short time, but that’s exactly what O’Brien did.


Winterset was sold at auction for 350 guineas to Mr Abe Silk, who raced horses under the pseudonym of Mr. ‘H.J. Ascot’. 
With a new owner also came a new trainer and Winterset now found himself under the guidance of Mordialloc trainer Des McCormick. 
Winterset would remain with Silk and McCormick for the rest of his career.




Sol Green







                    
             






                       Complete Jumps Record

39 Starts - 17 Wins 6 Seconds 7 Thirds

                                        


Winterset, under the ownership of Leo O’Brien, began his jumps career as a spring five year old in the October Hurdles over two miles at Flemington. Up to that point in his career, he’d faced the starter on the flat on 31 occasions for 6 wins, 2 seconds and 1 third. His previous five starts before the October Hurdles race were dismal, having finished last or near last on all five occasions.



                                   5YO

3rd 5/10/1940 Flemington: October Hurdle-2 miles
7 ran - 9.10 (6/1) S. McKee
1st Minim 9.13 (4/1) A. Driscoll – 2nd Jangler 10.9 (7/1) R. Jennings
½ nk x 4 len. Time 3:39




4th 16/10/1940 Caulfield: Oby Hurdle-2 miles
7 ran – 9.12 (3/1) G. Sholl
1st Mamillius 10.4 (6/4F) L. Meenan – 2nd Bonnie Laddie 9.1 (33/1) J. Maher
3rd Lockslea 9.2 (20/1) R. Parris. Nk x 2 len. Time 3:40 ¾



9th 5/11/1940 Flemington: Cup Hurdle Race-2 miles
9 ran – 9.11 (8/1) G. Sholl
1st Valhalla 10.10 (9/4F) L.J. Hynes – 2nd Mamillius 10.11 (7/2) L. Meenan
3rd North Cape 10.10 (12/1) R. Watts. 2 ½ len x 5 len. Time 3:40 ¼ 



11th 6/11/1940 Ascot (V): Gambier Maiden Hurdle-2 miles
15 ran – 10.9 (7/1) J. Ellis
1st Duralium 9.10 (7/1) T. Ryan – 2nd The Stork 9.5 (5/2F) S. McKee
3rd Teyanga 9.12 (8/1) R. Sweetnam. ¾ len x 1 ½ len. Time 3:40



2nd 27/11/1940 Ascot (V): Cranbrook Trial Hurdle-2 miles
16 ran – 10.5 (5/1) J. Maher
1st The Stork 9.9 (3/1F) S. McKee – 3rd Teyanga 9.11 (6/1) R. Sweetnam
1 ½ len x 1 ½ len. Time 3:38 ¾



WON 16/12/1940 Ascot (V): Delamere Trial Hurdle-2 miles
8 ran – 10.9 (4/5F) J. Maher
2nd Green Thorne 10.5 (7/1) R. Sweetnam – 3rd Leichar 10.9 (8/1) R. Jennings.
2 len x 8 len. Time 3:40 ½
Winterset wins the Delamere Trial Hurdle at Ascot
They started the day right when they sent Wlnterset out at 5 to 4 on for the Delamere Trial Hurdle, and he duly won by two lengths from Green Thorne. Leichar was a fair third eight lengths away, and of the unplaced division Parcem did best by finishing fourth. Winterset led from barrier rise, and he showed a clean pair of heels to the rest of the field until the half-mile post. Here he was joined by Green Thorne and a great tussle for the next two furlongs saw nothing between them. However, Winterset's superiority manifested itself, and over the last furlong and a half he was able to draw away from his rival. He looks like being a payable proposition as a Jumper. ('Daily Advertiser' Wagga Wagga – 17/12/1940)



2nd 21/12/1940 Moonee Valley: Trial Hurdle-2 miles 1f
9 ran – 11.2 (6/4F) G. Sholl
1st Leichar 10.6 (10/1) R. Jennings – 3rd Green Thorne 10.7 (9/4) R. Sweetnam
2 ½ len x 7 len. Time 3:56 ½




WON 26/12/1940 Flemington: Shoobra Hurdle-2 miles
8 ran – 10.9 (7/2) R. Sweetnam
2nd Jack Mac 11.4 (8/1) W. Johnson – 3rd Leichar 10.4 (8/1) R. Jennings
10 len x 8 len. Time 3:37 ½
Dashing tactics adopted by Ron Sweetnam gave his mount, Winterset, one of the easiest hurdle victories at Flemington for many years when the gelding won the Shoobra Hurdle this afternoon by 10 lengths from the former Sydney jumper Jack Mac. Winterset cleared away early in the race with a lead of at least 20 lengths, and although he jumped a little erratically at one or two obstacles, his exceptional pace never gave any of his opponents a chance.       On a track that was in perfect order Winterset ran the distance of about two miles in 3.37 ½. As false rails were in use from the mile post to a point beyond the straight, the time does not represent its true value. The Stork, who was always favorite, fell at the second hurdle, and appeared to give his rider, R. Watts, a heavy fall. At the time The Stork was going well.   
('The News'  Adelaide - 26/12/1940)





WON 1/01/1941 Flemington: New Year Hurdle-2 miles
10 ran - 11.2 (2/1F) R. Sweetnam
2nd Green Thorne 9.7 (8/1) J. Regan – 3rd Coylton 10.0 (4/1) L.J. Hynes
6 len x 4 len. Time 3:39 ½
Pace and jumping ability again stood to Winterset in the New Year Hurdle. Despite an increase of 7lb on the weight he carried to victory on Boxing Day, he always had the measure of his rivals and was untroubled to defeat Green Thorne by six lengths. Coylton endeavoured to pace it with Winterset from the beginning, but the Son o’Mine gelding proved more than his match. Coylton grew tired of the chase about five furlongs from home, and Green Thorne had little difficulty in running him down in the straight.
Exmoor did best of the others. Once a useful hurdler he may shortly reveal a glimpse of his true form. The chief disappointment was The Stork, who was never shaping like a winner, and finished a clear last. 
('The Age' Melbourne - 2/01/1941)



3rd 18/01/1941 Flemington: Hawthorn Hurdle-2 miles
10 ran – 11.9 (evensF) R. Sweetnam
1st Coylton 10.0 (11/2) L.J. Hynes – 2nd Metabus 9.1 (25/1) S. McKee
1 ¼ len x 4 len. Time 3:41 ¼



12/05/1941 - For no apparent reason, Winterset is sold at auction by his owner Mr. Leo O'Brien to Mr Abe Silk for 350 guineas. Mr. Silk races his gallopers under the pseudonym "H.J. Ascot".



2nd 26/07/1941 Moonee Valley: Aberfeldie Hurdle-2miles
11 ran – 11.2 (15/1) L. Meenan
1st Naverino 9.3 (7/2F) R. Sweetnam – 3rd Virile 9.6 (25/1) F. Grierson
½ hd x 3 len. Time 3:50 ½
                            
                               6YO


WON 9/08/1941 Flemington: Arkaringa Hurdle-2 ¼ miles
9 ran – 11.4 (5/2F) L. Meenan
2nd Virile 9.5 (12/1) R. Jennings – 3rd Lynton 9.0 (33/1) F. Dummett
1 ¾ len x 5 len. Time 4:25 ¼
Class prevailed in the Arkaringa Hurdle when Winterset made light of the burden of 11.4 and led all the way to win comfortably from outsiders virile and Lynton. Amnesty tried to pace with Winterset, but half a mile from home Winterset shook him off and cantered past the post with Meenan sitting against him. Winterset was always favorite and started at 5/2, after threes had been bet. Great disappointment was Naverino, who had won at his two previous starts. He was always laboring in the middle of the field and finished last. Ronalla drew attention to future prospects by rattling home in great style, being a close fourth. Tailed off 12 lengths in last position half a mile from home, Ronalla made up a tremendous amount of ground in the straight and was running on strongly when the judge was reached. ('The Mirror' Perth - 9/08/1941)



WON 30/08/1941 Moonee Valley: Paisley Hurdle-2 mile 1f
9 ran - 12.0 (2/1F) L. Meenan
2nd Amnesty 9.8 (10/1) K. Brinsley – 3rd Ken 9.2 (15/1) J. Sewell
8 len x 4 len. Time 3:59 ¼
Burdened with 12.0, Winterset was made a solid favorite in the Paisley Hurdle at Moonee Valley today, and backers confidence was fully justified by a brilliant performance. Winterset followed the pace until five furlongs from home, where Meenan sent him to the front and from then on it was only a case of how far he would win by. Only horses seriously backed against Winterset were Con Devon and Ronalla. First named failed miserably. Ronalla fell at the third hurdle. Others who failed to complete the course were Gilmerton, who fell and Florin who lost his rider. T. Griffiths, who rode Florin was kicked along like a ball for about 20 yards by following horses, and he got a great cheer when he sat up unhurt. 
('The Mirror' Perth - 30/08/1941)




WON 4/10/1941 Flemington: October Hurdle-2 miles
8 ran - 12.7 (10/9F) L. Meenan
2nd Friardoon 9.3 (8/1) S. McKee - 3rd Morse Code 9.6 (9/2) R. Hall
Nk x 8 len. Time 3:42 ½
Winterset gave one of the gamest displays of hurdling seen at Flemington for many a long day to win the October Hurdle under the crushing weight of 12.7. Restrained early, Winterset jumped his way to the front at the mile, but a little further on he was joined by Friardoon and they raced stride for stride to the last hurdle. After landing, Friardoon’s head showed in front, but despite the fact that he was conceding his rival 46 lbs. Winterset refused to give in and ridden desperately by Meenan, battled on courageously to down Friardoon in the last couple of strides and scored by a neck. Morse Code was eight lengths away third and the rest straggled home at long intervals. Notwithstanding the tremendous task he was faced with, punters declared solidly for Winterset who started a red hot favorite at 10/9. ('The Mirror' Perth - 4/10/1941)



3rd 15/10/1941 Flemington: Oby Hurdle-2 miles
10 ran 12.10 (7/2F) L. Meenan
1st Naverino 9.11 (4/1) F. Douglas – 2nd Flying Comedian 9.0 (5/1) S. McKee
½ nk x 2 len. Time 3:39 ¾



Winterset lines-up for his first start over the big fences in the Cup Steeplechase at Flemimgton on Melbourne Cup day.

WON 4/11/1941 Flemington: Cup Steeplechase-2 miles ½ f
14 ran – 12.7 (7/2) L. Meenan
2nd Benduli 9.10 (9/4F) W. Selby – 3rd Gracstello 9.7 (12/1) S. McKee
6 len x 15 len. Time 3:53 ½
Winterset, with the maximum weight of 12.7, gave a great exhibition in the Cup Steeplechase. Benduli rushed up to him with five furlongs to go and they raced head and head to the last jump, but then Winterset drew ahead to score by six lengths, with Gracstello 15 lengths away, third. The race was run in heavy rain and just after clearing the last fence in the straight Campaspe slipped on the flat and fell. In a general mix-up Trent Bridge, St. Robert and The Brewer came down over him. ('Kalgoorlie Miner' WA - 4/11/1941)






WON 8/11/1941 Flemington: J.A. Macleod Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
9 ran – 12.7 (5/4F) L. Meenan
2nd Campaspe 9.9 (7/2) F. Douglas – 3rd My Blarney 9.9 (8/1) I. Rohloff
8 len x 20 len. Time 4:46 ¼
Winterset, winner of the J. A. McLeod Steeplechase, is one of the outstanding 'chasers in recent years. Today was only his second try over brush fences, and he has won at both starts, each time carrying 12 7, which is the highest weight the handicappers can give 'chasers in Victoria. It is unprecedented in Melbourne for 'chasers to win at Flemington at first two starts with a 12.7 burden.  L. Meenan, who rode Winterset, won all four jumping races at the carnival — two hurdle races on Isambard and two steeple chases on Winterset. As on Melbourne Cup day, Winterset gave a glorious exhibition of jumping He stood off and leaped with great dash and confidence, and despite his big weight he came home so strongly that he could easily have done another round at the same pace. Benduli did not get farther than the first jump. His rider (W. Selby) hung on for about 100 yards, clinging to Benduli's neck. Another South Australian in My Blarney, after being three-quarters of a furlong behind Winterset, who practically led all the way, ran past a lot of beaten horses to finish third, and thus win £60 for his connections. ('The Mail'  Adelaide – 8/11/1941)




WON 6/06/1942 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
15 ran – 12.7 (5/2F) J. Maher
2nd Great Treat 10.10 (14/1) R. Jennings – Parentena 9.3 (14/1) F. Dummett
3 len x 5 len. Time 4:58 ¾
Winterset carried his National weight, 12.7 in the Hopetoun Steeple. Although he put in two or three short jumps early, he flashed out in magnificent fashion in the last half-mile to win running away from Great Treat and Parentena. Approaching the last fence, Great Treat looked dangerous, but once the Jumping was over Winterset drew right away. Winterset was doing better at the finish than at any other stage. 
Great Treat shaped particularly well, as it was his first start in a steeplechase. Brightello fell heavily about five furlongs from home. ('The Mail'  Adelaide - 6/06/1942)





WON 4/07/1942 Flemington: Kensington Steeple-2 miles ½ f
12 ran – 12.7 (5/4F) L. Meenan
2nd Grantley 9.6 (20/1) G. Sholl – 3rd Highland March 12.2 (7/1) R. Sweetnam
3 ½ len x 1 ¾ len. Time 4:06 ¼
Winterset, who was bred by Mr. S. Green, gave a fine exhibition of fencing throughout the Kensington Steeplechase, and was never seriously challenged.
The best price about him was 6/4, but the public was eager to accept such odds, and he closed at 5/4. Bureaucrat had a lot of backing from 4/1 to 3/1, whilst Winterset’s stable companion, Highland March, entered strongly into the market in the final stages.
Meenan on Winterset was content to sit in behind Henry Tutor and Bureaucrat early, but the favourite had no trouble in taking charge about seven furlongs from home. From that point his success was assured. The South Australian Grantley finished on well, whilst Highland March was travelling fast from a considerable distance back to secure third position. Bureaucrat, after being very prominent for most of the way, weakened. ('The Age' Melbourne – 6/07/1942)



3rd 11/07/1942 Flemington: Grand National Steeplechase-3 miles 1f
10 ran – 12.7 (5/4F) L. Meenan
1st Parentena 9.3 (10/1) F. Dummett – 2nd Victory March 9.11 (33/1) G. Godfrey
Nk x 4 len. Time 6:15





2nd 25/07/1942 Moonee Valley: A.V. Hiskens Steeplechase-2 miles 3 ½ f
13 ran – 12.7 (6/4F) L. Meenan
1st Dorset 9.11 (15/1) R. Sweetnam – 3rd (DH) Victory March 9.11 (8/1) G. Godfrey
3rd (DH) Tempus Fugit 9.2 (20/1) L. Miller. 5 len x 3 ½ len. Time 4:47



   7YO


2nd 24/10/1942 Flemington: Wyuna Steeplechase-2 miles ½ f   
12 ran – 12.10 (2/1F) L. Meenan
1st Trent Bridge 10.5 (5/2) G. Sholl – 3rd Victory March 10.8 (6/1) G. Godfrey
1 len x 1 ¾ len. Time 3:53



WON 28/11/1942 Flemington: Williamstown Cup Steeplechase-2 miles
13 ran – 12.10 (7/4F) L. Meenan
2nd Lord Jevington 10.12 (4/1) R. Miller – 3rd Solecism 10.5 (14/1) S. McKee
7 len x ¾ len. Time 3:54 ¼

Winterset jumps to the front at the last from Solecism

















Winterset showed what a great 'chaser he is, when he lumped 12.10 to a 7 lengths win in the - Cup Steeplechase.
Solecism got to the front half a mile from home, and after clearing the second last fence he had a lead of three lengths from Winterset and Lord Jevington.
Racing to the last fence, Winterset moved closer to Solecism, and, making a great leap to jump to the front Winterset turned for home in front, and in the run to the judge, left the others standing. The further they went, the further he moved away, and was not extended.
Winterset was always favorite today, starting at 7/4, with Lord Jevington, Sarthorn and Victory March the best backed against him. The winner was piloted by crack cross-country rider, Laurie Meenan. ('Sunday Times' Perth - 29/11/1942)



WON 24/04/1943 Flemington: Williamstown Easter Steeplechase-2 mile ½ f
13 ran – 12.13 (5/4F) L. Meenan
2nd Victory March 10.6 (9/2) G. Godfrey – 3rd Caragona 9.10 (20/1) H. Burridge
3 len x ½ len. Time 3:56 ¼
No winner of recent months at Flemington has achieved such cheers as Winterset when he won the Easter Steeplechase with the huge weight of 12.18. Winterset has staged many brilliant performances at Flemington, but today was one of his best efforts.
He made light of his huge weight and Meenan rode him along to take the lead nine furlongs from home. Although Winterset was seriously challenged over the last three furlongs, first by West Haran, then by Caragona and finally by Victory March, he left them easily enough in the straight and won from Victory March with Caragona a fair third.
Winterset, who was always a pronounced favorite, went to the front at the mile. After jumping the last fence, Caragona showed up on the outside and Victory March on the rails, but they had no chance in the run home and Meenan dropped his hands on the topweight over the last 50 yards. Victory March was not disgraced, nor was Caragona, and West Haran showed promise. ('Barrier Miner' Broken Hill - 24/04/1943) 

Winterset’s rider Laurie Meenan was suspended for one month for causing interference to Gold Watch and West Haran.
Trainer Des McCormick was warned by stewards to improve Winterset’s barrier manners or risk having him banned from racing.

The warning was the result of an incident that occurred at the barriers before the start of the Easter Steeplechase, where Winterset kicked several horses including the clerk of the course’s mount.




Laurie Meenan
Des McCormick

     

L/RIDER 12/06/1943 Flemington: Williamstown Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
16 ran – 13.2 (5/2F) L. Meenan
1st Trent Bridge 10.13 (12/1) G. Sholl – 2nd Victory March 10.11 (5/1) G. Godfrey
3rd West Haran 9.6 (12/1) W. Johnson. 2 len x ¾ len. Time 4:45 ¾


                       8YO 


L/RIDER 29/04/1944 Flemington: Red Cross Steeplechase-2 mile ½ f
11 ran 12.11 (5/1) L. Meenan
1st Caragona 9.9 (5/1) C. Anderson – 2nd Parentena 9.8 (3/1F) K Parris
3rd Highland March 11.5 (33/1) V. Courtney. 6 len x 4 len. Time 3:55 ½



WON 20/05/1944 Flemington: Spotswood Steeplechase 2 ½ miles
10 ran – 12.7 (5/4) L. Meenan
2nd Highland March 11.5 (7/1) G. Sholl – 3rd Parentena 9.10 (7/2) K. Parris
2 ½ len x ½ len. Time 3:56 ¼
Victoria's champion steeplechaser Winterset found 12.7 a luxury impost in today's Spotswood Steeple at Flemington.
He led almost from start to finish to win easily. He was 5/4 favorite.
It was only Winterset's second start since his fall last winter, when he sustained a leg injury which it was feared might finish his racing career.
Laurie Meenan, who crashed with Gay Invader in the Kororoit Hurdle, was passed fit to pilot Winterset, and he had an armchair ride. Parentena looked like making a race of it with the champion when he moved up to within a length or so approaching the second last fence half a mile from home, but Winterset out-jumped him and Parentena could not raise another effort. It was left to Highland March, stablemate of Winterset, to chase him home, but he was four lengths astern when the post was reached.
Both are trained by Des McCormick. ('Sunday Times' Perth - 21/05/1944)





WON 3/06/1944 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
10 ran 12.12 (6/4F) L. Meenan
2nd Highway King 9.2 (50/1) W. Johnson – 3rd Caragona 10.12 (7/1) C. Anderson
5 len x 4 len. Time 5:01 ¼
Winterset, Australia's champion fencer, staged one of his most brilliant performances in winning the Hopetoun Steeplechase with 12.12 at Flemington today.
An idol with the crowds, the applause for Winterset began when it was obvious he had the race won, and it developed into a wonderful reception when he and his rider, Laurie Meenan, returned to the enclosure. Winterset will receive the maximum weight (12. 7) in the Grand National Steeplechase, and although some people doubt his ability to get three miles and one- furlong, his win over two miles and a half today suggested improved stamina. Des McCormick (trainer) said after today's race that Winterset might have one more run over fences before the National. If so, it will be on the first day of the National meeting.
Favorite at 6 to 4, Wintered was left with a long lead when Volt, who was running second, fell at the third last fence. Highway King, a 50 to 1 chance, challenged later, but Winterset left him after the last fence, and won pulling up by five lengths.
('The Mail' Adelaide - 3/06/1944)




3rd 8/07/1944 Flemington: Grand National Steeplechase-3 miles 1f
8 ran – 12.7 (7/4F) L. Meenan
1st Highway King 9.2 (5/1) W. Johnson – 2nd Parentena 9.6 (9/2) K. Parris
2 len x 6 len. Time 6:05 ¼




5th 29/07/1944 Moonee Valley: A.V. Hiskens Steeplechase-2 miles 3 ½ f
15 ran – 12.7 (5/4F) L. Meenan
1st Highway King 10.2 (6/1) W. Johnson – 2nd Energy 9.4 (20/1) R. Watts
3rd Warwickshire 9.5 (33/1) K. Denham. 4 len x 3 len. Time 4:46 ¼


                           9YO


2nd 12/08/1944 Caulfield: Australian Steeplechase-3 ½ miles
11 ran – 12.6 (12/1) F. Dummett
1st Zalmon 10.13 (20/1) G. Godfrey – 3rd Highway King 10.4 (5/2F) W. Johnson
7 len x 3 len. Time 6:50




WON 21/10/1944 Caulfield: Wyuna Steeplechase-2 miles 3f 
10 ran – 12.13 (6/4F) L. Meenan
2nd Star Boarder 11.3 (10/1) K. Parris – 3rd Victory March 10.8 (5/1) A. Fullerton
5 len x 8 len. Time 4:29 ¼ (course record)
'It was the best performance he has ever given' said Laurie Meenan after Winterset had thrilled the Cup Day crowd by winning the Wyuna Steeple with 12.13. It was the heaviest weight Winterset had ever scored with, and he has won nine steeplechases carrying more than 12 st. Winterset was always first or second, and raced to the lead at the six-furlong post to win as he liked. He ran the two miles and three furlongs in 1.29 - a course record - and received an ovation greater in power and affection than that given Counsel three quarters of an hour later. Only three of the 10 runners completed the course.
Brewster's Millions, about whom there were two bets of £2,500 to £1,000 fell early in the race. There were two bets of £1,500 to £1,000 about Winterset, also £1,200 to £800 (twice) £600 to £400 (five times) and a cash backer new to Melbourne race-goers twice accepted £600 to £400 and handed over his money in brand new notes. ('The Mail'  Adelaide - 21/10/1944)




WON 2/04/1945 Morphettville: Great Eastern Steeplechase-3 miles
8 ran 12.10 (7/2) L. Meenan
2nd Lime Rock 10.5 (5/1) M. Merritt – 3rd Gold Watch 10.4 (7/4F) R. Watts
2 len x nk. Time 6:12 ¼
A crowd of 45,000 people at Morphettville yesterday afternoon saw Winterset, the Victorian champion, win the most thrilling Great Eastern Steeplechase decided for many years. He defeated last year's winner, Lime Rock, by two lengths, with the hot favorite, Gold Watch, a neck away in third place.
Wïnterset was almost down at the last fence in the Great Eastern, his rider (L. Meenan) said after the race. "He gave me a great ride right up to the last fence" he said.
"At that obstacle he battled hard to overtake Lime Rock, and on reaching for the obstacle he misjudged it, and landed almost on his nose on the other side.
"But he was too clever to fall.
"He still had to battle on to beat Lime Rock, but he did his job, and did it well."
Meenan classed today’s win as Winterset's greatest performance.
M. Merritt, rider of Lime Rock, said: "My mount was on his nose at the six furlong jump, and that took some sting out of him.
"He lost ground and "I think ' he might have won had everything gone right."
Ron Watts, who was on Gold Watch, said his horse did not jump nearly as well as usual. At the third last he hit badly and that settled him altogether.
Pat Ryan, rider of Jack Farr, said his mount ran through the obstacle at the six furlongs. 
('Barrier Miner' Broken Hill - 3/04/1945)

Winterset returns to scale at Morphettville


L/RIDER 28/04/1945 Flemington: Autumn Steeplechase- 2 mile ½ f
12 ran – 13.0 (evensF) L. Meenan
1st Victory March 10.8 (15/1) G. Godfrey – 2nd Tente 9.4 (33/1) J. Callahan
3rd Parentena 10.0 (20/1) F. Dummett. Nk x 5 len. Time 3:58




WON 2/06/1945 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
11 ran – 13.0 (7/4F) L. Meenan
2nd Tente 9.10 (8/1) J. Callahan – 3rd West Haran 10.5 (5/1) R. Jennings
4 len x 10 len. Time 4:53 ½
A remarkable ovation – applause resounded from all parts of the course – was accorded the champion steeplechaser, Winterset, who, carrying 13.0, cleared out from the challenger, Tente, carrying 3st. 4lbs. less, towards the finish of the Hopetoun Steeplechase at Flemington on Saturday to win in smashing style.
It was Winterset’s third successive victory in the race 
The owner Mr. “H.J. Ascot.” In reply to congratulations, remarked: - “It is the fourteenth time he has won for me, and I am greatly relieved he has now past the No 13. mark.” He added that no definite plans regarding the immediate racing future of the gelding had been made. That would be considered later in the week.

Judging from the strong manner in which Winterset finished at the end of two miles and a half on Saturday, it appears likely that he will again essay the Grand National Steeplechase, in which the maximum weight is 12.7. Last year he finished third to Highway King and Parentena. He was also third in 1942. 
Winterset has now won £10, 455 in stakes, and is third on the list of winning horses over the jumps.
Mosstrooper leads with £14,191. Roisel is next with £11,295.

Winterset was at all stages the public elect, and from the original quotations of 9/4 and 5/2 he firmed at barrier rise to 7/4. Scratchings reduced the field to 11. There was extensive backing for West Haran, who hardened from 7/1 to 4/1, returning to 5/1 at the close, whilst Tente was backed from 10/1 to 8/1. Parentena eased from 3/1 to 4/1, and Victory March from 7/1 to 10/1. 
Winterset gave a fine exhibition throughout. He reached the front early, but the 50/1 chance Nigel joined him before they entered the straight. Opposite the stand Nigel, going very freely, leaped to the front from Winterset, and they were followed by Parentena, Pantoon, West Haran and Tente.
L. Meenan did not attempt to wrest the lead from Nigel as they turned out of the straight, but kept within easy striking distance. As they approached the abattoirs treble Winterset moved forward smartly and quickly passed Nigel. At the same time Parentena improved his position. Parentena, however, blundered badly and lost so much ground that his chance was rendered hopeless.

Nigel fell about six furlongs from home. Meanwhile Winterset had opened up a substantial lead from Tente, Pantoon and West Haran, and clearing the last fence his advantage was about two lengths. Tente, under pressure, was making some impression on the leader as they turned for home, but when Meenan moved on the favourite, Winterset bounded away.
West Haran battled on into third position, lengths away and clear of Parentena, who had courageously made another effort after his unfortunate mishap.
Victory March, who had been last for most of the journey, was noticed making up some ground towards the close. Pantoon finished last of the seven to complete the course. He appeared to have broken down. ('The Age' Melbourne - 4/06/1945)




FELL 14/07/1945 Flemington: Grand National Steeplechase-3 miles 1f
9 ran 12.7 (5/2F) L. Meenan
1st Quixotic 9.5 (12/1) J. Cunningham – 2nd Parentena 9.11 (3/1) F. Dummett
3rd Victory March 10.9 (5/1) R. Hall. 5 len x 12 len. Time 6:18 ½


                           10YO


3rd 11/08/1945 Caulfield: Australian Steeplechase-3 ½ miles
14 ran 12.3 (5/1) L. Meenan
1st Tente 9.4 (6/1) J. Callahan – 2nd Victory March 10.4 (8/1) R. Hall
2 ½ len x 3 len. Time 6:55


Winterset was banned from racing after kicking Bright Court and lashing out at several other runners behind the barriers before the running of The Australian Steeplechase.
Winterset’s connections had been warned previously that his aggressive and unruly behaviour towards other horses would not be tolerated and that any further incidents would see him banned.  After the race the stipendiary stewards informed the connections that Winterset would not be permitted to start in races in the Metropolitan radius.

With the ban on racing in the Victorian metropolitan area in force, Winterset’s connections looked to South Australia for their star jumper’s future racing.

After an unplaced run over a mile at Snowtown in February, followed by a second placing over a mile and a half on the flat at Cheltenham Park in March, Winterset lined up in the Great Eastern Steeplechase over 3 ¼  miles at Oakbank. 


3rd 20/04/1946 Oakbank: Great Eastern Steeplechase-3 ¼ miles
12 ran – 12.7 (6/) L. Meenan
1st Ajester 10.0 (14/1) W. Smart – 2nd Sandalphon 9.3 (12/1) G. Kenny
 Nk x 40 len. Time 6:17 ½



4th 18/05/1946 Morphettville: Downer Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
10 ran – 12.13 (5/2F) L. Meenan
1st Sandalphon 9.10 (3/1) G. Kenny – 2nd Coongarra 9.1 (12/1) D. Thomas
3rd Artful Gold 9.5 (14/1) J. Carlin. 12 len x 8 len. Time 4:56 ½ 


In May 1946 an appeal to the V.R.C by ‘H.J. Ascot’ to have Winterset’s racing ban lifted was rejected. While awaiting the ruling on his appeal, Mr ‘Ascot’ had been looking at the options for his champion jumper including a campaign in the USA or New Zealand.
Following the rejection of his appeal and the difficulties associated with racing in America, it was decided that Winterset would chase the high stakes money that was currently on offer for steeple events in New Zealand.

Winterset failed to recapture his Australian form in New Zealand and after two unplaced steeplechase runs at Hamilton his connections decided to bring him home and retire him.

As one jumping career ended, so another began. Abe Silk gave Winterset to friends, Messrs. C.H Bennett and C.J.L Young, who trained a team of show-jumpers in Tasmania. Winterset took well to show-jumping and became a very talented member of Messrs. Bennett and Young’s team.



The following is an interview given by Laurie Meenan to Jack Rohan that appeared in ‘The News’- Adelaide on Sept 20 1947.
The article gives a great insight into Meenan’s time as Winterset’s regular rider.

WINTERSET may truly be described as the best steeple chaser Australians have seen in the past decade. He failed to win a National, but he fascinated racing crowds with his great and wonderful displays of fencing. He carried colossal weights in many dashing exhibitions. He was surefooted and intelligent. He had his whims, and liked his own way. Although Laurie Meenan parted company with him four times, Winterset actually ‘fell’ only once.

Resented Being Led

EARLY in my association with Winterset I found that he was moody. My second ride on him was in the Arkaringa Hurdle, in which he had 11 4. Winterset was soon in his stride, and in front. Passing the judge's box that fast South Australian, Amnesty, ranged up on the outside. I decided to allow Amnesty to lead and took a hold. Winterset immediately dropped the bit and slowed down. I thought he had broken down. Soon, however, I realised that he didn't like being led. I gave him a few cuts with the whip, he grabbed the bit and went up to Amnesty, and after a neck and neck struggle for a mile Amnesty dropped back beaten. Winterset won the race. I reported the incident to his owner and trainer and advised that he never be restrained.

Admirers of the gelding took 5/4 about him in the J. A. MacLeod Steeple, in spite of the fact that he had 12 10, and he won by eight lengths. Winterset won the Paisley Hurdle at Moonee Valley with 12 st. giving me my second successful ride on him. Allowed to stride along in front he gave a dashing display and won easily. That victory earned him 12.7 in the October Hurdle at Flemington. Owner, trainer, and I went into a huddle about it and decided that it would be suicidal to ask Winterset to lead with such a weight. He snorted in disgust when I set out to ride him behind the pace, and after fighting with me for nearly a mile he dropped the bit and started to slow down. Again I had to hop into him with the whip. He was soon in his stride, and went on to win. 
His most remarkable adventure occurred in the Oby Hurdle. At the hurdle near the judge's box Winterset took off too far and landed on the near side of it. He made another attempt and got over it, to run third. Because his imposts had become too severe for hurdle racing, Winterset was put to steeplechasing.

The Cup Steeple in 1941 was the first event of that nature chosen for him. To get him used to the fences, he was taken to Caulfield for a school with Dorset, a smart chaser from Ron Sweetnam's stable. Dorset out-jumped him, but it was a good trial. There was a supposed good thing named Benduli in the Cup Steeple, and he was a hot favorite. I gave Winterset all the rein he wanted and I can tell you I got some shocks. He took off from anywhere at some of the fences. A long way from home I knew that Benduli would have to be extra good to get within cooee of Winterset, who had 12 7. Winterset won by six lengths. It was a fine debut. As a seven-year-old. Winterset, carrying 12.10 won the Cup Steeplechase for the second time, and then won the Williamstown Easter Steeplechase with 12 13.

Weight Altered Style

YOU have to be in the saddle to know how heavy weights alter the action of a horse in taking off at fences. In the Williamstown Steeplechase, won by Trent Bridge, Winterset had 13.2 and his hind legs slipped as he was taking off at one of the fences. He made another effort in mid-air and scrambled over the fence, but landed awkwardly, and I slid over his shoulder. On another occasion Winterset made a perfect take-off, but went down on his hind legs as he landed. He "screwed" to regain balance and again I went over his ears. Winterset's only fall occurred at "Jumbo," a Flemington fence which caused many crashes. It was a wet day, and the going was up to the horse's hocks. Winterset measured "Jumbo" carefully and cleared it like a bird, but on landing his front legs sank several inches in the mud. He tried-desperately to extricate himself, but, with his heavy burden he was unable to do so, and turned a complete somersault.
As I hit the ground, I saw Winterset's head doubling under him. I felt that his neck would be broken for certain, but he got up instantly and trotted away, snorting at me as he went.

After that bad spill many wondered how Winterset would face up to the fences, but he continued to charge at them with his old confidence. In the first Grand National Steeplechase that he tackled, the old fellow got into a fence and went down on his knees. How he recovered was a miracle. No other horse that I have ridden ever hit a fence so hard without falling. He took off too far at another fence and just got his front legs over, his hind legs dragging half the brush away. After making these very vital errors he ran third to Highway King and Parentena. Just before that National, Winterset, with 12.12 had beaten Highway King (9.2), in the Hopetoun Steeplechase.

Winterset found the journey too far and Zalmon too brilliant when he ran in the Australian Steeplechase at nine years. But to show that he was not a has-been, he won the Wyuna Steeplechase with 12.13 on the day that Counsel won the Caulfield Cup. His trainer, Des McCormick, placed Winterset with great judgment, as a glance through Winterset's record will show. McCormick found that a run on the flat was all that the champion required to fit him for a steeplechase. The Great Eastern Steeple chase, run at Morphettville that year, was included in Winterset's winning record. He won it from the consistent Lime Rock. Toward the end of his ninth year, Winterset carried 13.0 and won the Hopetoun Steeplechase from Tente (9.10). Tente later won the Australian Steeplechase, Winterset finishing third.

Flemington Record

WINTERSET'S record of eight wins over Flemington fences, lowest weight 12.7, is likely to stand for a long time. The public and his owners had to take very short prices about him, often even money, 5/4 or 6/4, but I always regarded him as a good bet at odds on. Although I received many plaudits from crowds at Flemington when I won on Winterset, there were times when my reception was not flattering. When Winterset screwed to regain his feet after sprawling in the Red Cross Steeple at Flemington, I was shot from the saddle like a cartridge leaving a rifle. As I returned to the jockeys' room a racegoer told me I would fall off Baxter's merry go-round if I wasn't tied on. 

When Winterset nearly pulled the fence out of the ground at the second last in the straight at Flemington in the Autumn Steeple, I was sitting on the ground, wondering how it happened after a perfect take-off, when a loud voice from the flat called, "I've never seen anything neater than the way you jumped off Meenan!" Once I suggested to Winterset's owner and trainer that they should put up an unfashionable jockey so that they could get a price. They vetoed the idea. I still maintain that there wasn't a cross-country boy riding who couldn't have won on the champion. It was just a matter of holding the reins. Winterset could drop his shoulder and whip round on a three­-penny bit. Twice he sat me down with that trick. On occasions he stopped and wanted to go back to the enclosure instead of doing a preliminary. He liked being out of-doors, although he trained better inside his stable. 
Whenever Winterset had to be taken in from his paddock it took four or five to yard him up. He was as cunning as a cage full of monkeys. After being floated home after a win at Flemington he was put in his box, which was bolted. At 5 a.m. next day he was missing. He had kicked the lock off the stable door and was found grazing contentedly in a nearby paddock. Two things Winterset liked - jumping and fruit. It was lucky for him that his owner was a fruit merchant.
Mr. "Ascot" has commissioned me to find another Winterset, but horses of his calibre come along only occasionally.



             Complete Career Record

 83 Starts - 24 Wins 9 Seconds 8 Thirds



                       2YO 
9th 15/01/1938 Caulfield: Holiday Stakes-5 ½f
12th 31/01/1938 Williamstown: Juvenile H’Cap-6f
15th 19/02/1938 Caulfield: Alma Stakes-6f

                                  3YO

16th 6/08/1938 Caulfield: Crimea Trial (2nd Div)-1 mile
6th 3/09/1938 Caulfield: Doona Trial (1st Div)-1 mile
WON 21/09/1938 Moonee Valley: Arundel Maiden H’Cap (1st Div)-1 mile
WON 24/09/1938 Moonee Valley: Merri Trial H’Cap-10f
7th 8/10/1938 Caulfield: Iolo welter (2nd Div)-9f
11th 12/10/1938 Caulfield: Moora Welter-1 mile
14th 29/10/1938 Flemington: Cantala Stakes-1 mile
                                         
                                 4YO

10th 16/09/1939 Moonee Valley: Nulla Nulla Welter H’Cap (1st Div) 5 ½ f
10th 30/09/1939 Moonee Valley: Pascoe Welter-1 mile
13th 18/10/1939 Caulfield: Moora Welter-1 mile
WON 1/11/1939 Kyneton: Kyneton H’Cap-9f
8th 15/11/1939 Woodend: Woodend Cup-1 ¼ mile
11th 22/11/1939 Bendigo: Bendigo Cup-1 mile 3f
2nd 2/12/1939 Moonee Valley: Benevolent Highweight H’Cap-1 mile
9th 23/12/1939 Williamstown: Fund H’Cap 1 ¼ miles
5th 01/01/1940 Flemington: Welter-1 mile
WON 6/01/1940 Moonee Valley: Cumberland H’Cap-10f
7th 27/01/1940 Moonee Valley: Caldermeade H’Cap-10f
3rd 3/02/1940 Mentone: Frankston Welter H’Cap-1 mile
2nd 15/02/1940 Werribee: D.J. Canny H’Cap 1 ¼ miles
WON 17/02/1940 Caulfield: Salisbury Welter (2nd Div)-1 mile
WON 13/03/1940 Kyneton: Kyneton Cup-9f
8th 16/03/1940 Caulfield: Kooyong Welter-1 mile
16th 20/04/1940 Moonee Valley: Yuroke Welter-1 mile
9th 4/05/1940 Moonee Valley: Magdala Welter H’Cap-1 mile
                                    
                             5YO

13th 3/08/1940 Flemington: Moondah Plate-6f 
15th 14/08/1940 Ascot (V): Rosslyn Welter H’Cap-7 ½ f
12th 4/09/1940 Ascot (V): Litchfield Welter-7 ½ f
3rd 5/10/1940 Flemington: October Hurdle-2 miles 
4th 16/10/1940 Caulfield: Oby Hurdle-2 miles
9th 5/11/1940 Flemington: Cup Hurdle Race-2 miles
12th 6/11/1940 Ascot (V): Gambier Maiden Hurdle-2 miles
2nd 27/11/1940 Ascot (V): Cranbrook Trial Hurdle-2 miles
WON 4/12/1940 Ballarat: Wendouree Highweight H’Cap-7f
WON 16/12/1940 Ascot (V): Delamere Trial Hurdle-2 miles
2nd 21/12/1940 Moonee Valley: Trial Hurdle-2 miles 1f
WON 26/12/1940 Flemington: Shoobra Hurdle-2 miles
WON 1/01/1941 Flemington: New Year Hurdle-2 miles
3rd 18/01/1941 Flemington: Hawthorn Hurdle-2 miles
7th 8/02/1941 Moonee Valley: Newport Welter (1st Div)-1 mile
12th 19/07/1941 Flemington: Malvina Welter-1 mile
2nd 26/07/1941 Moonee Valley: Aberfeldie Hurdle-2miles

                             6YO

WON 9/08/1941 Flemington: Arkaringa Hurdle-2 ¼ miles
WON 30/08/1941 Moonee Valley: Paisley Hurdle-2 mile 1f
WON 4/10/1941 Flemington: October Hurdle-2 miles
3rd 15/10/1941 Flemington: Oby Hurdle-2 miles
WON 4/11/1941 Flemington: Cup Steeplechase-2 miles ½ f
WON 8/11/1941 Flemington: J.A. Macleod Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
19th 9/05/1942 Moonee Valley: Magdala Welter-1 mile
7th 16/05/1942 Ascot (V): Villiers Welter (1st Div)-9 ½ f
11th 30/05/1942 Moonee Valley: Empire Highweight-1 mile
WON 6/06/1942 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
WON 4/07/1942 Flemington: Kensington Steeple-2 miles ½ f
3rd 11/07/1942 Flemington: Grand National Steeplechase-3 miles 1f
2nd 25/07/1942 Moonee Valley: A.V. Hiskens Steeplechase-2 miles 3 ½ f
                                             
                           7YO 
6th 19/09/1942 Geelong: Lara Welter-7f
2nd 24/10/1942 Flemington: Wyuna Steeplechase-2 miles ½ f 
WON 28/11/1942 Flemington: Williamstown Cup Steeplechase-2 miles
11th 17/04/1943 Pakenham: Hospital H’Cap-8f 143yds
WON 24/04/1943 Flemington: Williamstown Easter Steeplechase-2 mile ½ f
L/RIDER 12/06/1943 Flemington: Williamstown Steeplechase-2 ½ miles

                         8YO

L/RIDER 29/04/1944 Flemington: Red Cross Steeplechase-2 mile ½ f
WON 20/05/1944 Flemington: Spotswood Steeplechase 2 ½ miles
WON 3/06/1944 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
3rd 8/07/1944 Flemington: Grand National Steeplechase-3 miles 1f
5th 29/07/1944 Moonee Valley: A.V. Hiskens Steeplechase-2 miles 3 ½ f

                         9YO

2nd 12/08/1944 Caulfield: Australian Steeplechase-3 ½ miles
11th 7/10/1944 Pakenham: Spring H’Cap-8f 143 yds
Won 21/10/1944 Caulfield: Wyuna Steeplechase-2 miles 3f
10th 17/03/1945 Pakenham: Autumn H’Cap-1 mile 143yds
6th 31/03/1945 Morphettville: Von Doussa Steeplechasers’ Flat-1 ¼ miles
WON 2/04/1945 Morphettville: Great Eastern Steeplechase-3 miles
L/RIDER 28/04/1945 Flemington: Autumn Steeplechase- 2 mile ½ f
WON 2/04/1945 Flemington: Hopetoun Steeplechase-2 ½ miles
FELL 14/07/1945 Flemington: Grand National Steeplechase-3 miles 1f

                      10YO

3rd 11/08/1945 Caulfield: Australian Steeplechase-3 ½ miles
8th 23/02/1946 Snowtown SA: Barunga H’Cap-1 mile
2nd 9/03/1946 Cheltenham Park: Snowdon Steeplechasers’ Flat-1 ½ miles
3rd 20/04/1946 Oakbank: Great Eastern Steeolechase-3 ¼ miles
4th 18/05/1946 Morphettville: Downer Steeplechase-2 ½ miles