Flemington: Celebrating the Champions
A Day of Triumphs and Tales
Race 7: The Elms Handicap - A Partnership to Remember
Horse: Cafe Millenium
Jockey: Celine Gaudray
Celine and Cafe Millenium's partnership is a match made in racing heaven. "He's the ultimate partner; he does everything I ask. Today, the race played out perfectly for us," Celine gushed. But was she confident throughout?
"I anticipated more speed, but when they slowed, I seized the moment. I guided him wide, and he responded with his powerful stride. He was simply too tough for the competition," she explained.
Trainers: Ben, Will, and JD Hayes
JD Hayes praised Celine's ride: "Ron Finemore's faith in Celine paid off. She's an exceptional young rider, and they have a special connection. Her ride was authoritative, and Cafe Millenium is a true Flemington champion."
"Celine's hands are magic. She's an underrated horsewoman who consistently delivers for us. We're thrilled to have her on board," JD added.
Looking Ahead: "We're considering some gear changes to enhance his performance. Flemington's track suits him perfectly, and we're eyeing similar races."
Race 6: Be Captivated Trophy - A Tribute to Lightning
Horse: Berkeley Square
Jockey: Luke Nolen
"Today holds special meaning. It's a tribute to Lightning, a horse I knew well. Getting a result on such a day is significant," Luke Nolen shared.
"Berkeley Square relishes Flemington's track. Despite the modest pace, he blended seamlessly into the race. The weight wasn't an issue, and he proved his mettle at the end," he added.
Trainer: Dan O'Sullivan
Dan praised Luke's ride: "It was fantastic. I thought he might struggle, but he found his spot. His run last week was exceptional. He's incredibly consistent, especially on the outside. Winning over 2500m is a testament to his ability."
"Berkeley Square's win resembled his Ballarat Cup victory. Full credit to Luke for working it out. It's great to see him back in the winner's circle," Dan concluded.
Future Plans: "Our focus is on the Adelaide Cup. The breeder, David Peacock, is eager to add it to his collection. Berkeley Square is the right horse for the task. We're considering the Roy Higgins, but he needs a break soon."
Race 5: The Schweppes Plate - A Tough Battle
Horse: Ndola
Jockey: Luke Currie
"It was a close call, but we prevailed. Credit to the team for their strategic training," Luke Currie said.
"Ndola traveled well but needed space. When he found it, he burst through and held his gallop. It was a fortunate win," he added.
Trainers: Ben, Will, and JD Hayes
JD Hayes explained: "We gave Ndola some time between runs. He responded with a sharp turn of foot at 1200m. Luke Currie's ride was beautifully judged. Ndola seems to enjoy the straight, and we might see him there again."
Race 4: Vobis Gold Prelude - An Impressive Display
Horse: Perilous Fighter
Jockey: Luke Cartwright
"Perilous Fighter's win was impressive. He's been inconsistent, but today, he was well-placed and benefited from the claim. It's a great day for the owners thanks to VOBIS Gold," Clayton Douglas' representative, Anthony Mithen, said.
"VOBIS offers excellent prizemoney. It's one of my most significant wins, benefiting me, the owners, and the trainer," he added.
Trainer: Clayton Douglas
Anthony Mithen praised Clayton: "His faith in Perilous Fighter has paid off. We almost sold him, but Clayton insisted on buying half and training him. It's been a strong partnership. Clayton's a brilliant young trainer, and his achievements are remarkable."
Race 3: Desirable Stakes - A Smooth Victory
Horse: Sass Appeal
Jockey: Damian Lane
"It was an easy win. Sass Appeal found her stride quickly. She's a relaxed leader, and I was able to control the pace. From the 600m mark, I ensured a strong finish for the chasers," Damian Lane explained.
Trainer: Danny O'Brien
"Sass Appeal and Damian clicked today. I instructed him to rate her, and he did. She kicked strongly inside the last 200-300m. I think we'll aim for the Kewney Stakes, staying in fillies' grade. We have high hopes for her in the spring," he added.
Race 2: BM78 - A Perfect Execution
Horse: Tarvue
Jockey: Luke Cartwright
"I'm thrilled. Tarvue's ability is exceptional. Today's race was perfect; she had a nice draw and used her stride effectively. I think John Sadler has a talented stayer on his hands," Luke Cartwright said.
Trainer: John Sadler
"Tarvue's runs have been impressive, except for her first this season. Luke rode her poorly at Caulfield, but he owned up to his mistake. We're glad to have him back on board, and he delivered," John Sadler explained.
Next Steps: "We're considering the Torney Cup, a Listed race at Moonee Valley. It would be a great achievement for Tarvue."
Race 1: TAB Talindert Stakes - A Natural Competitor
Horse: Hard Kick
Jockey: Damian Lane
"Hard Kick is a natural competitor. He wanted to race the others, and it took some effort to slow him down after the line," Damian Lane shared.
"He's a good horse. His jump-outs were impressive, and he sustained a strong gallop today. I think he might be right up there with the best after this performance," he added.
Trainers: Ben, Will, and JD Hayes
JD Hayes said: "Hard Kick was purchased at the Sydney Ready To Run sale. He's been well-educated and showed promise. We're not sure he's Miss Finland's equal, but he looked good today."
Future Plans: "We're keeping our options open. Hard Kick has plenty of potential, and we're excited about his future."
Most Impressive: "Winning by four lengths was impressive, but his control of the tempo and kick-off was exceptional. A very professional performance."
Flemington's races showcased talented horses, jockeys, and trainers. Each victory tells a unique story, and the future holds exciting possibilities for these champions.
