REIGNING Derby and St Leger winner Perfect Neighbour returned to competitive racing on Wednesday last. While it was not spectacular, it demonstrated the development he has made since last racing in the Talawah Superstakes on November 9, 2013.

The now four-year-old progeny of Natural Selection – Desperate Housewife, got off well in the mile event, and from the six furlong marker stayed surprisingly, close to the leaders. Jockey Dick Cardenas then loosened his hold coming around the first turn and Perfect Neighbour responded by drawing alongside the then leader Pete’swildone and actually entered the straight in front. Although Military Move was closing in the final furlong, it was no bother for Perfect Neighbour who won by just over a length in a fairly good time of 1:38.4 minutes.

Trainer Wayne DaCosta was pleased with the run. “He is not fully there as yet, but Perfect Neighbour is a happy campaigner and judging by this run today (Wednesday) he is on the right course and can only grow from strength to strength. A workmanlike performance by Perfect Neighbour.”

DaCosta was all smiles earlier in the day as he witnessed his Insane Bolt win a hard fought Restricted Stakes event over seven furlongs as racing fans continue to keenly watch the three-year-olds as the Classic season gets closer. Not severely hampered by the number two draw, jockey Cardenas held Insane Bolt (Shuffling Madness – Golden Olympio) off the early pace, but when main rival Boy Wonder (Omar Walker) made his move, Insane Bolt followed. Then a really exciting stretch duel ensued with Insane Bolt finally moving away to claim the victory and his fourth overall. DaCosta analysed Insane Bolt’s win as the most encouraging run by the gelding.

“He is coming along nicely and I am very pleased with how he won. He was determined and fought for his win. Encouraging, very encouraging.”