Already a $1million earner coming into the $150,000 Listed National Sprint (1400m) at Canberra on Sunday having won the 2019 $1million ATC Kosciuszko and finished fourth in the race last year, Handle the Truth is also now a stakes-winner after snaring his first Black Type victory.
Trained on the track by Keith Dryden, the five year-old son of Star Witness was too strong in scoring a dominant length and a half win under Nash Rawiller.
Bred by the Laurel Oak Assertively Syndicate, Handle The Truth advances his record to nine wins and six placings from 26 starts with earnings in excess of $1.3million.
He is the best of two winners from Bernardini (USA) mare Assertively, who had been purchased by Laurel Oak Bloodstock for $155,000 out of the Rothwell Park draft at the 2011 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale.
Unsuccessful in three race starts, she has proven her worth as the dam of Handle the Truth, but sadly died in 20919 after producing just four foals.
Handle the Truth is the 19th stakes-winner for Widden Stud’s Star Witness, who will move to Victoria for the 2021 breeding season at the new Widden Stud Victoria.
Star Witness had a great weekend with talented three year-old Amish Boy finishing a gallant third in the Group I VRC Newmarket Handicap and Swift Witness a close second in the Group II ATC Reisling Stakes.