September Born Trials Suggest Form Revival

Neville Parnham’s hopes are rising ahead of a new campaign for September Born, who signalled his readiness with a sharp trial win that went a long way to erasing the disappointment of last year’s WA Guineas tilt. The promising 3YO surged late to win a 950m heat under Brad Parnham, clocking in with ease and renewing confidence that he can return to his best, reports racingwa.com.au. Having endured a frustrating setback last spring, the stable is eager to see him back competing at a high level. The son of Playing God had built strong form leading into the 2023 carnival, notching a win in the Listed Fairetha Stakes (1400m) and placing second in the Listed Belgravia Stakes (1200m). But a below-par run in the WA Guineas, where he finished eighth behind Storyville, ended with him pulling up lame and subsequently ruled out of the remainder of the campaign. “Unfortunately, he pulled up with pretty severe bruising and had an abscess forming,” Parnham explained to Tabradio. “He went into the race pretty much the favourite, I think, and we walked away with our heads down and disappointed.” With time to recover and mature, September Born has returned in encouraging shape. “He’s had a nice break now and has come back in pretty good order,” Parnham said. The gelding is set to resume in a 1200m 3YO set weights and penalties event at Belmont on May 31, which the trainer believes will serve as a crucial stepping stone. “It’s not a handicap, so he should be treated ok. That will give him a good step into the 1400m of the Raconteur, also at set weights and penalties.” The path beyond that includes the Listed Raconteur Stakes on June 14 and the Listed Belmont Guineas (1600m) on June 28, the same double completed by his half-sister Kay Cee in 2020. “All going well I think setting him aside and heading towards the summer carnival would be well thought out as the plan,” Parnham said. After overcoming injury and a curtailed campaign, September Born’s return has the stable optimistic that he can make a serious impact through the winter and beyond.