Silent Surrente stars in the G2 Adelaide Cup

Silent Surrente delivered a career-defining victory for star apprentice jockey Rochelle Milnes, taking out the Group 2 Adelaide Cup (3200m) for local trainers Will Clarken & Niki O’Shea at Morphettville on Monday.

Milnes, riding the $10 chance with betting sites, found herself posted wide early but maintained a steady rhythm with the six-year-old mare. She pushed forward to take control of the race and had enough left in the straight to hold off Newfoundland ($6.50), who settled for second, beaten 1-1/4 lengths, with Grand Pierro ($16) a length further back in third.

The 22-year-old apprentice, who was recently named Dux of the Racing SA Apprentice Academy, was left speechless after her milestone victory in a black-type race.

“I’m a bit at a loss of words, to be honest,” Milnes said.

“I’m absolutely exhausted, but the support from this team has been unbelievable for my career. I can’t thank them enough. I’m breathless, and I really don’t have the words to express my gratitude to this incredible crew.”

“They’re amazing people, and this horse has come into this race in peak form. I’m so proud of her.”

The win marked the first Adelaide Cup triumph for the Clarken & O’Shea stable, with Will Clarken crediting his training partner, Niki O’Shea, for his role in managing Silent Surrente.

“Hometown Cup obviously means a lot, doesn’t it,” Clarken said.

“I pride myself on my modesty. My name’s in the book, but Niki really trains this horse.”

“He’s done an outstanding job from the moment she joined the stable. He nurtures them, rides all their work, and has played a crucial role in this victory. It’s a team effort, and I have to give full credit to him. He’s a brilliant horseman.”

Clarken also had high praise for Milnes, recognizing her ability early on.

“I know this sounds silly, but I never thought she was going to lose. She just found her rhythm beautifully,” Clarken said.

“I’ve backed her talent from before she had her first race ride. Her skills are incredibly smooth. She’s an outstanding jockey who works tirelessly, and this is a well-earned reward.”

Meanwhile, two other notable winners from the meeting could be targeting Group One races during the Adelaide May carnival. Gala Queen is emerging as an Australasian Oaks contender, while Sir Sway is on course for the Goodwood Handicap.

Gala Queen, trained by Phillip Stokes, claimed victory in the Listed Morphettville Guineas (1600m). Sir Sway, trained by the mother-and-son partnership of