Fourth Stakes victory for son of Bernardini

With the G1 Epsom Handicap a few weeks back seemingly the form race of the moment, Bernardini four-year-old Toydini who had finished a narrow third when beaten less than half a length in that race, won his fourth Stakes race on October 26, landing the G2 Crystal Mile at Moonee Valley.

Settling third from last, jockey Blake Shinn never panicked and when the runs started three furlongs from home, Toydini came around the field to hit the front and hold off the late challenge of G3 winner Speediness.

With fellow Bernardini four-year-old Boban (winner of the G1 Epsom Handicap) having made a victorious reappearance last week, it looks as though both sons of the Champion three-year-old will clash in the G1 Emirates Stakes on the last day of the Flemington carnival.

Bred by Bob and Jan Bergstrom, Toydini is out of the dual Listed-winning, multiple G1-placed Johan Cruyff mare Johan’s Toy, a half-sister to G2 winner Extra Zero and G3 winner Operetta Lass. Johan’s Toy produced a full-sister to Toydini in late August.

Bernardini is sire of 23 Stakes winners seven of whom have won G1 contests, including Alpha, Stay Thirsty and To Honor And Serve -all of whom have won twice at the highest level.