Jimmy gets redemption in the 2025 Winter Championship Series Final

Jimmy The Bear finally got his reward in the Winter Championship Series Final (1600m), scoring an emotional win for Patrick and Michelle Payne’s stable at Flemington on Saturday.

After going down as favourite in the same race in 2023, the now-seasoned gelding bounced back to win by a head over Munhamek ($41), while Forgot You ($61) filled third place in a thrilling finish. Starting at $5.00, Jimmy The Bear was strong late despite covering ground from a wide alley.

Michelle Payne praised the horse’s honesty and durability, calling him a true stable favourite.

“He’s just an old marvel,” Payne said. “His win last start put the writing on the wall. He was great under Tom Prebble and brilliant again today.”

“Billy did the best he could from the barrier. It was looking a good chance all the way up the straight, but he had to fight for it and just as Jimmy does, he doesn’t know how to run a bad race.”

Jockey Billy Egan, who missed the 2023 edition but was back on board due to Prebble’s suspension, credited the stable and young rider.

“Tom Prebble is here on course, shows he’s in the game for all the right reasons and he’s a good jockey,” Egan said.

“It was a bit like riding a group winner then actually, because just how much everyone in the stable loves this horse.”

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