Kelley Racing enjoyed a great afternoon at Thoroughbred Park on Friday, coming away with a winning double from four runners on the card. Picksix kicked things off with a solid third in the Benchmark 50 before Brutal Eyes and Stonecoat both delivered strong victories later in the program.

Brutal Eyes, a 4YO mare by Brutal, lined up in the Big River Trade Hume Plate (1600m) and settled just off the speed under Jeff Penza. She travelled kindly in the run before hitting the lead on the corner, was challenged and briefly headed in the straight, but dug deep to fight back and claim the prize by a long neck.

Raced by Mr Peter H Lewis, Mr Tony Gardner, Mr Martin J Forbes, Mr Tim M Jackson, Mr Joseph Savoria and Mr Jarrod M Gercovich, Brutal Eyes has quickly made her mark in her first preparation with the team. She has now put together 5 starts for 2 wins, a second and a third, banking over $35,000 in prizemoney.

Later in the day Stonecoat, a 6YO gelding by Pierro, stepped out in the Turners Building Supplies Handicap (1600m) and made every post a winner. Apprentice Claire Ramsbotham took the initiative from barrier nine, crossing to lead and rating him perfectly in front. Despite carrying 62kg (60kg after claim), Stonecoat kicked strongly in the straight to score by one and a half lengths.

The stable has now prepared four winners from its past dozen starters, with all horses running well and rewarding the team’s hard work behind the scenes. Attention now turns to Hops and Hooves at Thoroughbred Park on Saturday, September 27.

Looking further ahead, tickets are now available for Matt Kelley Raceday at Thoroughbred Park on Friday, October 10 — a feature day for the stable where all are welcome to join the team trackside.

Click here to purchase tickets.