October 8, 2012Fourth in the Group 1 Epsom Handicap for Lightinthenite
The Group 1 Epsom Handicap over the Randwick mile is widely regarded as the premiere race of the Sydney Spring Carnival and we’re ecstatic to have had a runner in the race, especially one who ran so well.
We came in light at the weights carrying 52kg along with nine other acceptors in the 15 horse field. Regular jockey James McDonald was unable to make the weight so we engaged top Sydney jockey Jimmy Cassidy in for the ride. Jimmy previously rode Lightinthenite once for a win at Rosehill.
The weather wasn’t ideal but the Randwick track maintained it’s Good 3 surface for the entire card’s racing. Throughout the race Lightinthenite didn’t get too many opportunity’s to run-on having been stuck on the fence from the inside alley, he also got cut off in the straight which was detrimental to his momentum, however Lightinthenite hit the line exceptionally well giving us plenty to look forward to going forward.
Lightinthenite
The race was won by Fat Al, the $4.60 favourite, in second place came Ambidexter and in third was Rolling Pin (NZ), who beat Lightintehnite by a nose in his last start, the Group 3 Cameron Handicap at Newcastle.
Jockey Jimmy Cassidy commented, “He felt great and hit the line so well. I had a lot of horse under me. He’s a lovely animal and I think he’ll go great over a little more ground.”
John O’Shea went on to comment, “He ran super I couldn’t fault his effort. Unfortunately for him he didn’t get any favours in the running, however he hit the line strongly and he looks as if he’ll get over a bit more ground this time in, which I’m looking forward to.”
Lightinthenite has since pulled up exceptionally well. We are now looking forward to seeing him over more ground, potentially in his next start across the border in Melbourne. Keep your eye on this space for more news on the exciting galloper.
Well done to all connections – a fourth in such a high quality Group 1 race is a great achievement!