Marble Arch stands tall in Supremacy heat

Bruce Stewart Journalist

Southern Bred Southern Reared Marble Arch (Always B Miki) looks a strong candidate for the Group Two Alabar Southern Supremacy Stakes Final in a fortnight, after winning the fourth heat of the series at Winton yesterday.

Driver Carter Dalegty eased Marble Arch out of the gate and once the early pace was dialled back he progressed forward to take the lead.

Turning in, Marble Arch had a narrow lead and he held out late challenges from Spicey Lou and Giorgio Denario. The winning margin was half a length with Spicey Lou finishing second.

“He’s so good in front because he relaxes and when they get close to him he finds another gear. I think he’s tough and fast,” Dalgety said.

The win yesterday didn’t surprise his driver.

“Not to sound arrogant, but no. We’ve always had a bit of an opinion of him and he was very good last start. I thought he’d handle this company.”

Dalgety said Marble Arch ticks most boxes but learning to get out of the gate faster will add to his armoury.

The Cran and Chrissie Dalgety trained Marble Arch will now head to the $60,000 Group Two Alabar Southern Supremacy Stakes Final at Ascot Park on Diamonds Day.

“It’s a very good series this year but I won’t swop him for any others (laughter).”

Bred by Mark and Debbie Smith of Shard Farm, Kentuckiana Lodge bought Marble Arch for $50,000 at the NZB Standardbred Yearling Sales.

“We’ve always liked him a lot but he’s taken a bit of time. Always B Miki’s can be a little bit like that. He only had his first start a month ago and has just got better and better.”