The striking Deep Field colt Portland Sky jumped straight to the front and made every post a winner in Saturday’s $200,000 Group III PFD Food Services Red Anchor Stakes (1200m) at Moonee Valley.
Trainer Matt Laurie said he was considering scratching Portland Sky due to the soft track. However, the lightly raced colt never looked in danger at any stage as Ben Melham guided him to a three-quarter length win over the honest Pride Of Dubai filly Bella Nipotina with a further back to the Street Boss (USA) gelding Valaquenta.
Portland Sky made a winning debut over 1000m on the Ballarat Synthetic on August 25 before finishing close-up at Caulfield and Flemington at his last two starts.
Laurie said the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes at Flemington is on the radar.
“I felt like he’s a group horse and we’re going to strike a wet track at some point,” Laurie said.
“I still don’t actually think he handled it to be honest, so it’s very good to get the win.
“He always felt like a quality horse. Throughout this preparation he has just continued to improve and I think he’s just going to keep doing that. We have a really good horse.
“We’re not nominated (for the Coolmore) but we’ll certainly see how he pulls up. We are very mindful it’s his first preparation and we want to look after him.
“It may not be the right thing, but if he’s jumping out of his skin, you never know.”
Consigned by Alwyn Park Stud, as agent for Anita Vale Stud, Portland Sky was purchased by his trainer for $85,000 at the 2019 Perth Yearling Sale.
He is the first live foal of the Shrewd Rhythm mare Sky Rumba who is a half-sister to multiple Listed winner London line out of a half-sister to triple Group 1 winner Scenic Shot.
Sky Rumba has a 2yo colt by Blackfriars who was a $170,000 purchase by Simon Miller Racing at this year’s Perth Magic Millions.
Sky Rumba has a yearling filly by Sessions and foaled a colt by Universal Ruler on September 20.
Portland Sky becomes the sixth stakes-winner for Deep Field who commands at fee of $55,000 at Newgate Farm this spring.
