Sam Bergerson made a winning start to his training career at Cambridge on Wednesday when Cote de Beaune took out the Kingsclere Stables 970.
It was the first win for the newly established Te Akau training partnership of Mark Walker and Bergerson, which had a distinct tangerine flavour, with Cote de Beaune having been bred by former Te Akau head trainer Jamie Richards and Te Akau Stud.
Bergerson was rapt to get on the board so early in his career and he is excited about the rest of the season at the helm of New Zealand’s leading stable.
“Monkey off the back early (in the season) is a very good feeling and a bit of relief too,” Bergerson said.
“It’s a massive thrill, a bit overwhelming, surreal and bizarre, but we’ll look forward to celebrating later today.
“I watched the race with Mark (Walker) and it was pretty exciting to see him cross the line in front.
“I’ve been given a massive opportunity with Te Akau Racing and I am looking to repay Dave (Ellis) & Karyn (Fenton-Ellis) and Mark for the faith they’ve put in me.
“Last season didn’t really go to plan for Cote de Beaune and it was a bit disappointing, but we always knew he had the ability to bounce back.
“He trialled well here in July behind stablemates Maven Belle and On The Bubbles, getting back and running on, and Mark thought rather than trialling him again on a heavy track we’ll have a go at the 970m and if it didn’t work out then it was another trial anyway.
“The plan came off, which is really pleasing, and Warren (Kennedy, jockey) gave him a good ride.”
Walker was just as pleased for Bergerson and enjoyed sharing the moment with his junior training partner.
“It’s a really special day for Sam and one he’ll always remember. We were in the office together watching it and it was great to get a win together on the first day of racing for us in the new season,” Walker said.
“Sam played a big part in all the winners last season. He’s got the world at his feet, as far as training is concerned. He’s intelligent, a bright young star, and a very proud day for his family as well.”
It was also a proud moment for Te Akau principal David Ellis, who enjoys fostering young talent.
“Sam is an outstanding young man, a fine example, and comes from a family with strong backgrounds working with horses,” Ellis said.
“Sam’s father, Roydon Bergerson, is a trainer and his grandfather, Herb Bergerson, was also a trainer.
“Sam got an insight into what we do at Te Akau Stud when working here for three months during lockdown, stepped up as assistant (trainer) to Jamie (Richards) and Mark and he’s a smart young guy with a huge future in our industry.”