Trainer Anthony Azzopardi was a man up to pussy’s bow with success on Saturday night at The Meadows, after jagging two group ones: the Zoom Top and the Temlee invitationals. In the latter it was Whiskey Riot, preceded three races earlier by Just Terms and it’s only right that the thrill hadn’t gone when he spoke with RSN’s Gareth Hall on Monday.
On Whiskey Riot he was emphatic. “That was one of the greatest wins. Only amazing animals can do what he’s done.”
“He’s been mature for a while now, but he just keeps getting better and better the older he gets.”
Even after ‘knuckling’ the mat at the start, which Anthony suggested probably cost him half a length, and a stumble on the first turn, he got himself back in to rhythm again to past the post at 29.955, a third of a second in front of King Cratos.
Whiskey had a month off prior to the win, so Anthony is confident he’ll be even better next time.
In the 725m Zoom Top, Just Terms had spent most of the distance in fourth before a late surge sent her ahead of the likes of True Detective, Blazing Cartier and Here’s Tears.
Did Anthony expect that? “Yes and no. We’re a bit confident in her. I think she’s coming into her zone now.”
Next for Just Terms is the Fanta Bale Super Stayers, then Anthony think it might be a trip to Sydney, with the Easter Egg in his sights.
As a postscript, Caishen – little brother to Whiskey Riot – added to the spectacular week by winning the $40,000 G2 Launceston Cup on Monday night.
