Scout has talent

Talent Scout marked himself as middle distance improver with his maiden victory at Murtoa on Saturday, October 3.

Having just his second start for trainers Tony & Calvin McEvoy, Talent Scout proved too strong for his rivals in the CHS Construction Maiden (1600m).

The three-year-old had a series of jump outs and trials before making his debut over 1300 metres at Echuca on September 20.

Linda Meech rode him that day when Talent Scout finished a good third and she stayed aboard for the win at Murtoa.

She had the gelding well placed third on the fence on settling down at Murtoa and was suited when the leader went for home about 400 metres out.

Talent Scout ($2.20 fav) responded and gathered in Jotopeli ($8.50) to go clear and win by an increasing 2-1/4 lengths with Nikephoros ($31), a distant six lengths away third.

Winning jockey Linda Meech believes Talent Scout has the ability to develop into a talented stayer.

“He did everything pretty right today but he still a work in progress,” Meech said.

“He was wanting to get away from the horse outside him instead of concentrating on going forward.

“So to win was a good effort from him.

“He was like a two-year-old rather than a three-year-old – he lacks strength but he has got ability so that is a good sign going forward.

“He is going to mature into a nice staying type.

“Talent Scout was off the bridle a long way from home, and I was really pleased with the way he hit the line.”

Rayan Moore, Racing Manager for McEvoy Mitchell Racing, agreed Talent Scout was a promising staying three-year-old.

“From the time Linda (Meech) rode him in a jump out she always thought he could develop into a nice stayer,” Moore said.

“I thought he was excellent today.

“He ran strongly through the line and I’m sure he can step up in grade.

“We will look for a race around 1800m – 2000m for his next start but we are excited about the way he is coming along.”