CROWD ROARS WOOF FOR PEROVIC

Carlton fans would have a good start to Derby weekend when a horse named after 80s cult figure Val Perovic saluted at Moonee Valley on Friday night. 

Perovic the footballer won two premierships for Carlton in the early 80s, but his cult like status grew as the fans yelled "Woof" every time he drove the ball long with a booming kick in a game.  Over the decades since the Blues fans always have a player they follow this ritual with.

Perovic the horse was having just his fourth start and the three-year-old showed he is quick learner as jockey Billy Egan jumped straight to the front and controlled the race before kicking clear. 

"The other day at Seymour we were pestered out in front and he was entitled to give in, but he kept fighting to hold third. No such trouble tonight as everyone just sat off us and we were able get an easy lead and he gave a strong kick into the straight which won him the race," Egan said post-race.

"He is starting to put it together and he will have no trouble getting further as he was strong through the line."  

Perovic is a son of Pierro and was purchased by the Rosemont Stud's Victorian Alliance Syndicate. 

Pic by Racing Photos