Stratum sires Group 1 double in Perth

Quality galloper Stratum Star flew home to nail Scales of Justice right on the line in the G1 Kingston Town Classic (1800m) at Ascot on Saturday.

It was the second elite victory within a week for former Widden Stud stallion Stratum in Perth.  He sired last Saturday’s G1 Winterbottom Stakes winner Takedown.

A proven Group 1 winner of the Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes in Melbourne, Stratum Star sent his earnings soaring past $1.65 million for champion trainer Darren Weir.  He cost just 1% of that total at the 2013 Gold Coast Magic Millions.

“We deliberately aimed him for the Kingston Town,” Weir said.  “And it’s a plan which we have been able to deliver.

“I came over and looked at him last week and he looked a bit big underneath.  I said he needed some strong work, so on Monday he had a good hit out under Willy Pike.  Thanks to everyone involved.”

Stratum (Redoute’s Choice) succumbed to a heart-attack at Widden Stud in September.  His Kingston Town winner is the first foal of Purely Spectacular (Pins) who is a full-sister to NZ stakes winner Raid.

Stratum Star gave Bunbury-born jockey Damian Lane a Group 1 in WA.  “It gives you great confidence when a trainer like Darren Weir puts you on board,” Lane said.  “He had a lovely run and had the last crack at them.  It worked out perfect.”

Stratum has progeny earnings over $45 million and besides Stratum Star and Takedown, his other Group 1 winners include Crystal Lily, Streama and Southern Lord.

STRATUM STAR

STRATUM STAR