Australia: Pounce launches new phase of career at Rosehill
Success with European imports has been the backbone of Chris Waller's stable, and unlocking the potential of former U.S.-trained gallopers is shaping as the next frontier in Australian racing.
Waller built much of his early momentum with stayers sourced from Europe. But with that market now well and truly exposed, the influx of stakes-class Thoroughbreds from America has begun to slowly increase.
The likes of Yulong-owned mares Moira, Full Count Felicia and River of Stars all started their respective careers in the U.S. before joining Waller's team earlier this year. Although they have yet to taste success locally, the latter has been Group 1 placed in the Sydney Cup.
Tulloch Lodge has won majors with former American mare Con Te Partiro in the 2020 Coolmore Classic and Queen Of The Turf Stakes and the well-travelled Royal Patronage in the 2025 Canterbury Stakes. They came from Europe to Australia via the U.S.
Waller's assistant trainer Charlie Duckworth is hoping their yard's latest U.S. acquisition, Pounce, can likewise make her presence felt.
"They've done a pretty good job, the American (horses) in recent years," Duckworth said.
"Yulong has given us a good few mares, the likes of Moira and Full Count Felicia, so we have had a sample, but it's always interesting to see where form marries up.
"She (Pounce) certainly looks like she is going to make the grade anyway."
A two-time group winner over a mile in America, Pounce will launch her Australian chapter in The Nivison going six furlongs at Rosehill on Saturday, with Adam Hyeronimus booked for the ride. Post time is 1:10 a.m. EDT.
Duckworth expects her to improve as she steps up in journey but says the 5-year-old has adapted to her new environment well and has the class to feature from a low draw in gate 4.
"Once she gets up over a suitable distance she will be a genuine contender over here," he said.
"She hasn't missed a beat since arriving. It's just whether the distance is going to be too short."
Pounce is owned by Resolute Racing, led by American businessman John Stewart, who was the underbidder on Winx's first foal.
Duckworth said the mare's performance at Rosehill would give them a clearer picture of what races to target but added they were keen to add to her stakes record.
"She is a multiple Group 3 winner, so it will be about trying to get more black type on her page," he said.
Pounce was a $15 chance on Thursday with Gangsta Granny a $2.80 favorite.
Coverage of Rosehill for Horse Racing Nation is made possible through a sponsorship by Sky Racing World.