Emerging three-year-old colt McWoody continued his rise through the grades with an impressive victory at Sandown on Wednesday, delivering a strong performance on the Lakeside track to secure the most significant win of his career to date. Prepared out of Macedon by the training partnership of John Symons and Sheila Laxon, McWoody—a brown colt by Alabama Express out of Queen Ouija—has continued to furnish into a promising galloper, and his latest success suggests there is more to come.
The $55,000 3-Y-O BM64 Handicap also marked McWoody’s first start for the stable following his recent move from Mark Walker and the team at Te Akau Racing, who laid a strong foundation for the colt in the early stages of his career. The seamless transition was on full display, with McWoody stepping out in excellent order for his new connections.
Ridden with confidence by Daniel Stackhouse, McWoody settled well throughout the run, travelling comfortably before letting down strongly in the straight. When asked for an effort, he responded in determined fashion to finish over the top of his rivals and defeat Obvious, stamping himself as a horse with upside. The victory brought up his second career win and highlighted his continued development, both physically and mentally, as he progresses through his preparation.
McWoody has also proven a profitable horse for punters, returning an impressive 98 percent on investment across his career to date—an indicator of his consistency and competitiveness each time he steps out. With a strong debut for his new stable now under his belt and further improvement to come, McWoody looks well placed to build on this momentum as his campaign unfolds. Congratulations to Rikki McDonald and all connections involved!