Mendicity had enough class to overcome a slow getaway and win the Racing Radio WA Hcp (1200m) at Ascot on Wednesday.

The Blackfriars mare is beginning to fulfil the potential that was evident last season when she was placed in the LR Burgess Queen Stakes.  “I reckon the key is to keep her fresh,” trainer Jim Taylor said.  “She missed the kick and had to work hard outside the leader so it was a good effort to put them away in the straight.”

Mendicity (4m Blackfriars – True Bloom by Is It True) was a $26,000 buy at the 2010 Perth Magic Millions for a group of owners including Damon Gabbedy, Mave Yeo, Tony Buhagiar and the Beer, Bet & Bite Syndicate.

She is by Scenic Lodge champion Blackfriars and has won two of her three starts at Ascot since resuming from a 25 week spell.  “There wasn’t a lot around for her while I was away on holidays last month,” Taylor added.  “She seems to be suited by having her runs spaced.”

Mendicity is the fourth winner from four to race from True Bloom and Scenic Lodge will offer her half-sister by Universal Ruler as Lot 196 at the Perth Magic Millions on February 19 & 20.

“The mare’s first foal Xaar Boom won four races and was G3 placed in a Champion Fillies Stakes,” Scenic Lodge general manager Jeremy Smith said.  “Jimmy also trains the Hurricane Sky – True Bloom filly named True Storm.  She’s unraced but looked very smart winning a Lark Hill trial last month.”

Universal Ruler (Scenic) is being groomed as the heir-apparent to his own sire in Western Australia.  Apart from winning up to Group 3 level, he also defeated Scenic champion Scenic Blast in the LR Perth 2YO Stakes.

“Universal Ruler was an explosive sprinter and we’re looking forward to selling his first yearlings at the Magic Millions,” Smith added.  “His True Bloom filly is a quality, athletic type and comes from an outstanding family that continues to produce winners.  There’s no reason why she won’t join them.”

Universal Ruler’s first yearling to parade is the colt from Rebel Sister (Lot 149).  He is a half-brother to Rebelson who has claimed Listed victories in the Fairetha Stakes and Aquanita Quality this season.

– Karl Patterson

UNIVERSAL APPEAL
Universal Ruler – True Bloom filly