Slow maturer Exasperate has continued his excellent recent run of form with a tough win on a rain-sodden track at Caulfield.
Success in Saturday's Neds Same Race Multi Handicap (1600m) was Exasperate's third in his past three visits to the track, interspersed with a second placing at Flemington.
Trainer Matthew Brown will consider his immediate options with Exasperate, explaining that if the rain continues in Melbourne he will consider extending the gelding's campaign.
Ridden by apprentice Mitch Aitken, Exasperate ($5.50) scored by 1-1/4 lengths from Charossa ($7), with $2.70 favourite Benitoite the same margin off third.
"He was probably going to the paddock after today but if the rain is going to hang around then we may have a look what's on in a couple of weeks," Brown said.
"I want to get him out in trip next time around so we may freshen him up.
"He's always shown us a lot of ability on the track but he's just been a bit of a slow maturer like the whole family have been."
Brown said he would eventually like to aim Exasperate at his hometown Cranbourne Cup in the spring.
"Dad sponsored the Cranbourne Cup for many years so it's a race that we've always wanted to have a decent runner in, let alone win," Brown said.
"Hopefully we've got the right sort of horse to have a red hot crack.
"He's only getting better. I don't know what level he'll get to but I hope he keeps going the way he's going."
Australian Associated Press
