Buying tried horses at the right price has become central to Mark Minervini’s operation, and the Newcastle trainer is optimistic Hanau could be the next to pay dividends.
Minervini has already struck gold with Hosier, purchased midway through his career before winning the 2023 Group 3 Premier’s Cup (2000m) at Rosehill.
Like Hosier, Hanau was secured through an Inglis Digital Sale for $100,000, with Minervini saying proven horses offer immediate returns for owners.
“We try to have a mixture of yearlings and tried horses. We would probably buy one (tried horse) a month, ten or twelve a year,” Minervini said.
“If you buy a yearling for the same amount of money, you can wait two years… This way, you are almost certain that what their form is will be what you’re going to get, and there is no waiting.
“The best result I’ve had is Hosier… For a little stable like us, if we can pick up a city horse for around that money, it’s gold.”
Previously with Godolphin, Hanau had one winter run for the stable but failed to handle a heavy 10 track and was spelled.
He resumes in Sunday’s Catanach’s Jewellers Handicap (1100m) at Rosehill after two trials, the latest a strong ridden-out win at Gosford.
“His second trial was pretty solid, and he will go there and be competitive,” Minervini said.
“If there is good speed on, it will suit him even better.”
Hanau has drawn the outside barrier in a field of eight, with apprentice Braith Nock booked to ride.