By Laurie Moody
Despite a frustrating run of placings with multiple runners over the last month, three-year-old filly BROOKER AVENUE provided the Lang Brothers some much needed joy when breaking her maiden tag last Thursday at Lismore.
Having named BROOKER AVENUE after the street they grew up on , the filly is raced in partnership with their sister and was purchased as a weanling not long after the passing of their mother in 2017.
All of these elements contributed to making the victory a very sentimental one for Lang Brothers Racing
Having only her sixth career run , and following placings in two of three runs this preparation, the boys felt a victory was not far away given the filly had always shown them enough raw ability.
Handled astutely by jockey Josh Oliver, settling just worse than midfield early, she was given a patient ride, allowing her plenty of time to find space and wind up at the top of the straight.
Upon straightening, she was set the challenging task of chasing down the short priced favourite CELEBRITA’S CHOICE . Under the hands and heel urgings of Oliver, she showed tremendous determination to win by a short half head in the shadows of the post.
Speaking after the race, part owner Matt Lang described the win as being “extra special”.
“It was certainly an emotional one given the family connection. We lost her dam giving birth last year to a Your Song filly and BROOKER is now the fifth winner from five to race, so this means a lot, “said Lang.
“To also have her win in the family colours is very satisfying”, he added.
BROOKER AVENUE has pulled up well from her maiden victory and will look to target a similar race over the next few weeks before taking a well earned rest.
