Hand Me Down in a breeze

Former New Zealand galloper Hand Me Down broke through for an impressive maiden win at Hamilton on Saturday, August 3.

Trained by Tony & Calvin McEvoy, Hand Me Down led throughout in the Sheepvention “See Ewe There’ Maiden (1600m).

Jockey Jarrod Fry bounced the five-year-old to the front and rated him perfectly.

Hand Me Down ($2.70) was strong through the line winning by two lengths from Pure Thoughts ($5.50) with Speck Boy ($26), 2-1/4 lengths away third.

Trainer Tony McEvoy said the winner was only having his third start.

“I’m sure there is plenty of upside with him,” McEvoy said.

“He is bred to run 2400 metres, but Calvin and I will take our time to find his best distance.

“Rayan (Racing Manager, Rayan Moore) found him in New Zealand, we liked him and were able to buy him.

“He trialled nicely, and we had him ready to run at Ballarat in mid-July but because of the wet weather, the meeting was transferred from the grass to the poly surface.

“John Allen, who had ridden him in the trial, said Hand Me Down wouldn’t stretch out on the synthetic surface so we came to Hamilton today and he loved the heavy eight track.”

McEvoy said the trainers would be conservative with the ex-New Zealander.

“Even though he is five, he is still learning about racing, and we will take our time to work him out.

“I don’t think we will head to town until he gets out to his right trip.”

Winning jockey Jarrod Fry said it had been an easy win.

“The horse was beautiful to ride – an absolute gentleman,” Fry said.

“He began really well and got to the top, pricked his ears and got into a beautiful rhythm.

“I gave him a click up at the top of the running and didn’t have to punish him.

“He accelerated really well and loved those conditions.

“It was a nice track gallop, and he really enjoyed it.”