Route’s successful long journey

It has been a long journey, but Siberian Route proved the right direction at Strathalbyn on Wednesday, December 16.

After competing in a trial in Victoria as a two-year-old in November 2018, Siberian Route had to wait two years to make his race debut for trainers Tony & Calvin McEvoy but did it in a style.

Now a four-year-old, the gelded son of Hinchinbrook had his first start in the Fleurieu Milk Company Maiden (1200m) with Barend Vorster in the saddle.

Starting a $2.10 favourite, Siberian Route raced away in the home straight to thrash his rivals by 5-1/4 lengths from Gangster Rap ($26) with Ever Onward ($26), three-quarters of a length away third.

Vorster had the gelding away quickly from gate one and led, holding the inside.

A few rivals tried to put pressure on and look for the front, but Vorster allowed his mount to continue to push through and maintain his advantage.

Turning for home, Vorster said, “Let’s go boy” and Siberian Route accelerated away to win impressively running strongly through the line.

Finn McCarthy, SA stable foreman for McEvoy Mitchell Racing, said it had a great reward for connections who had waited for more than two years.

“He’s a horse that has had a few issues,” McCarthy said.

“He’s had a few knee issues and been immature.

“The owners have had to be patient with him but fortunately the horse has plenty of ability and it was great to get a win with him.

“Siberian Prince was very strong late, but he still looks like his learning what he is doing at the moment.

“Halfway up the straight he got really clear of them and was very good.”

Siberian Route was purchased by McEvoy Mitchell Racing for $220,000 at the 2018 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale.