Songbook a stayer for SJ

Saturday, 25 February 2023 | Last Wednesday’s Ascot winner American Songbook will make a stayer and trainer Stephen (SJ) Miller knows time is on their side while the learning curve continues this year.

American Songbook (Manhattan Rain) was racing for just the third time when he scouted wide on the corner and then took over from Romantic Ruler (Universal Ruler) in the TABtouch Maiden (1400m).

A big, strong individual, he is bred for a black-type career being a half-brother to I’m Feeling Lucky (G3 La Trice Classic), Baronova (LR Belmont Classic) and Utgard Loki (LR Pinjarra Autumn Cup).

“He’s a very nice type and has always shown us something,” Miller explained  “He was pretty plain first-up a fortnight ago but his work before and after that run has been good.   Today’s win will do him the world of good but he’s new to everything and is still a prep away.”

Geisel Park sire Manhattan Rain got American Songbook (pictured) from Irish-bred mare Twinkle Toes (Danehill) who was purchased by John Chalmers (as agent) for Lynward Park at the 2008 Inglis Easter Broodmare Sale.

Coolmore Stud sold her for $72,500 and she was one that got away from the Irishmen foaling three Stakes winners followed by American Songbook and unraced 2yo filly Petrouchka (More Than Ready).

Second-dam Band Of Angels (Alzao) represented a Group 1 generation as a half-sister to Dr Devious (G1 English Derby), Shinko King (G1 Takamatsunomiya Cup) and Archway who sired five Group 1 winners in Australia.