Fresh from winning the Stradbroke Handicap last week with Srikandi, Ciaron Maher struck again on Saturday, this time at Flemington with Hard Romp.

There was a lot of authority about the win, the gelding displaced Anatina, the original opening favourite, as it turned out she ran a very ordinary race.

Hard Romp will never get it any easier than Saturday, he was simply coasting out in the centre of the track until it was time to go, the curtain was drawn then within a few strides.

“He was just super today, everything was just perfect to the credit of Michael Dee, he has put in a lot of time with this horse, all now is going well”.

The team at the stable have done their share as well, it has been a smooth campaign and a credit to the owners, as they have been pretty patient with him, “said Ciaron Maher.

“If the horse gets the right conditions he goes alright, I would say up to another level, heavy tracks are not a problem with him, he goes well under those conditions,” added Maher.

Hard Romp is by Hard Spun, who is consistently siring winners, particularly in Victoria; however, he is missing from the Darley list of sires for this coming season.

He is being replaced by the brilliant new comer, Brazen Beau, he puts his reputation on the line on Saturday at Royal Ascot, when he pits his talents against the cream of the European sprinters in the Diamond Jubilee Stakes.

Hard Romp ridden by Michael Dee