Deep Field was expected to have the winner of the first race at Warwick Farm on Monday with the Alan Bell owned Deep Space a short priced favourite, but when he wilted over the final furlong it was another Deep Field that appeared on the scene with Tickler snatching a narrow debut win.
Trained down at Goulburn by Kurt Goldman, Tickler had trialed once previously for a third at Canberra back in February, but had obviously pleased his trainer since to warrant a trip to town for his first start.
Tickler sat outside the leader Deep Space for Hugh Bowman and then was strong to the line to score a head win in the 1100m maiden.
“He’s always shown us good ability at home, but the heavy track was an unknown so he’s won well,: said Goldman.
“I think he’s a smart horse that can progress to something nice in the future.”
Foaled and raised at Edinglassie, as was his sire Deep Field, Tickler was retained to race by his breeders and is the fourth winner from four foals to race from Kissame Mucho, a half-sister by Fastnet Rock to stakes-winners Essington and Frespanol from Group III winner Besame Mucho.
Tickler is the 74th winner this season for Deep Field, who is closing in on the record for second crop sires by winners held by his own sire Northern Meteor. It was set back in 2013/2014 when he sired 80 winners.
