Carlton Bay continues family success at Ashburton

By Mike Love 

Carlton Bay trotted to his maiden success at Ashburton yesterday in what was a satisfying win for Leeston trainer Chris McDowell.

The three-year-old Carlton gelding had two starts as a two-year-old before being tipped out.

“He was just a bit weak as a two-year-old. But he’s really strengthened up and grown,” said McDowell. 

Yesterday’s win came in his third start this campaign, backing up from his second placing at Kaikoura two weeks ago. 

“He’s got such great manners and was able to get himself into a good position.”

Carlton Bay and driver Sam Thornley began fast from the tapes to lead early before opting to take a trail from the mile. From there it was just a matter of waiting for the passing lane to use, which they did in style, scooting through to win by one length, running home in 59 seconds for the closing 800m.

Carlton Bay is raced by McDowell and Derek Newton.

Carlton Bay continues a good run for the family. His dam, Jaguar Bay, is out of excellent broodmare Jaguar Franco, whose progeny were all racewinners, barring one, including Jumanji Franco, Jag’s Invasion, Majestic Jag and last start winner Barrytown, among others. 

“The family has been really successful, hopefully he can go on with it. For now he’ll probably have one more start then have another break.”