Kalapour lands Gr.3 Victory

The early promise shown by Kalapour (War Command) was franked in dominant fashion on Saturday, when the lightly-raced six-year-old landed his first black-type win in the Gr.3 JRA Chairman’s Hcp at Doomben.

Under the urgings of Tim Clark, Kalapour improved out wide from a midfield position and had the leaders collared in the final 100m to run, crossing the line to register the landmark half-length victory.

Purchased by his now trainer Kris Lees and Justin Bahen after four starts in the UK, Kalapour has had a total of eight starts since his Australian arrival and has rewarded connections during this time with three wins and two runner-up placings.

Kalapour, who races in the colours of Lib Petagna’s Elsdon Park, was bred by His Highness The Aga Khan’s Studs and is co-owned by Gurners Bloodstock Co (Syndicate), Joe Singh, William Guest, Michael Clemenger, Tim Watson, David Redgrove, Susan Redgrove, Todd Johns, Ian Clifton, Peter Filipovic, Janne Guest, Jill Cross, Narelle Malone, Sue Grayson, MJM Racing (Syndicate Manager Ralph Huddy), Tah Boys (Syndicate Manager Anthony).

Kalapour’s first-class staying effort on Saturday came as no surprise to Lees Racing stable representative Mel Eggleston.

“He’s just such a classy galloper and a no-fuss horse, he just does everything right,” said Mel.

“He’s the type of horse that tries to please you all the time.

“We’re looking at the 2400m in the next fortnight at Eagle Farm.”

Following in the footsteps of Cruz Missile, Milford, One Kiss and Lost and Running, Kalapour represents the fifth stakes winner celebrated by Elsdon Park’s racing team this season.