The Fox too clever in the 2025 Galleywood Hurdle

The Cunning Fox proved too strong in the feature event of day two at Warrnambool, claiming the Galleywood Hurdle and completing trainer Patrick Payne’s full set of Warrnambool jumps trophies.

Now training in partnership with sister Michelle, Payne added the Galleywood to his earlier wins in the Brierly and Grand Annual Steeplechase.

Under a composed ride from Tom Ryan, The Cunning Fox ($3) outstayed $2.35 betting sites favourite Affluential by 1-¼ lengths, with Right Now ($20) grabbing third.

Once a promising stayer on the flat—finishing second in the VRC St Leger (2800m)—The Cunning Fox has thrived over jumps, racking up successive wins since debuting at Pakenham last winter.

Ryan called the performance a “dog fight” and praised the gelding’s slick jumping style and determination.

“He’s such a cat, jumping wise. He’s so slick and clever,” Ryan told racing.com. “There were no hiding places and he answered every call.”

“He approached the last awkwardly, but handled it with such quickness and composure. He’s got that terrier-like will to win.”

The ride marked Ryan’s first Galleywood victory, and he credited the horse’s heart and agility for the result.

“The feeling he gave me at Pakenham, it was something I hadn’t felt for a long time,” he said. “He confirmed that for me today.”

To top off the day, Ryan also won the Dunroe Steeplechase aboard Jekyll’n’Hyde, completing a perfect day over the jumps.