George Simon: Wood lost for words? That’s Gold must be good
George Simon • December 8th, 2025 1:55 PM • 3 min read
I enjoyed watching That's Gold win at Pukekohe last Saturday.
The Chris Wood trained 3-year-old upset a couple of highly touted opposition to win the Bonecrusher Stakes with Tayla Mitchell aboard.
After scoring an overdue maiden win at his previous start, That's Gold handled the rise to Group Three level with aplomb.
Expertly handled by Mitchell, That's Gold came with an impeccably timed finish to overhaul To Cap It All who looked the likely winner at the 300m, by a half-length.
Mitchell, having her first ride aboard That's Gold had the son of Lucky Vega in a handy position waiting patiently to make her challenge.
When popped the question, That's Gold responded immediately.
Although it took 10 starts to win his maiden, That's Gold has always been held in high regard particularly by his trainer.
Watching Wood being interviewed on Trackside following the race, it was evident how much the win meant to him.
Not only did the win justify Wood's opinion of That's Gold but, by his own admission, it had been a while between drinks for success at black type level.
And it showed, with the popular horseman momentarily emotional and almost lost for words.
I say almost, because everyone who knows Wood knows he's very rarely left speechless.
I've known the Cambridge based conditioner for many years and, I'm sure he won't mind me saying , he could talk underwater with a mouth full of marbles every day of the week.
Runs in the family too with his eldest son Tom, an accomplished commentator in Hong Kong.
I served for more than a decade on the former Cambridge Jockey Club committee with Wood and his presence always ensured robust discussions.
Never one to shy away from making the tough decisions , Wood became an integral figure on that committee with his forthright views.
Whilst that trait may have upset a few of racing's hierarchy over the years, I admired him for it.
Although it may have been Wood's first stakes winner for a while, he certainly is no stranger to success at the highest level.
Stable stars of yesteryear included Group One winners Allegro, Al Akbar and Des's Dream whilst Kaapstad Way and Echo Lass were top drawer performers too.
Maybe That's Gold is the horse to rekindle those halcyon days.
I'm sure Woodsy would be hoping so.
