When introducing Champion 2yo Colt at the 2017 Darley stallion parade, Master of Ceremonies Steve Davis declared Sidestep "The Smokey in the ranks", and Head of Nominations Alistair Pulford commented "You need to just look a bit deeper to get an edge over your competitors, and this is a horse that might give you that edge". If the season's first 2yo trials are anything to go by, Davis and Pulford's words may prove prophetic.
Aptly named One Step looked a likely prospect indeed for
Hawkesbury trainer Tommy Wong, sitting deep and winning his trial under a hold in smart
time on Monday. Whilst on the Sunshine Coast Mark Webb's filly Kaihi was restrained early
before being allowed to stride along late to be runner-up in an eye-catching
effort.
Standing his fourth season at Queensland's Telemon Thoroughbreds, these encouraging early signs from his very first runners are more than welcome for Sidestep's new custodians.
Telemon General Manager Joe Heather was suitably impressed. "It's really encouraging to see a couple show up in the early trials. We keep hearing positive feedback about how well the Sidesteps are shaping up, and to see that both to be produced in public have lovely actions and are doing everything right at this early stage is pleasing."
Sidestep is available to Queensland breeders for $7,700, a fee that looks incredible value for a Champion 2yo Colt by Exceed and Excel.
"He's been really popular. He's an incredibly well conformed, imposing, athletic horse. As a son of Exceed and Excel, first colt home in the Slipper, and Champion 2yo colt of his year he's one of the best credentialled young stallions to step foot in Queensland and is absolutely made for QTIS. With these nice early babies flying the flag, he'll be a busy boy indeed. Fortunately for us he has great libido and fertility, so he'll handle the workload no problem".
For further information or to book, visit www.telemonstud.com.au
