Rose Hammond lands breakthrough Flemington races win

Rose Hammond realised a career highlight at Flemington on Saturday by guiding Lake Vostok to victory in the RMBL Investments Rising Stars Final (1600m), a race reserved exclusively for apprentice jockeys.

Despite being out of contention for the Rising Stars series title, Hammond was laser-focused on capturing the race itself and was elated to secure her first win at the iconic track.

“This was the ride I’ve been waiting for all week,” Hammond said. “The light weight helped us late and the horse responded beautifully.”

Teaming up with Lake Vostok ($9), trained by Luke Oliver, Hammond timed her run to perfection. The gelding came from midfield to overhaul Jazz Affair ($6.50) by half a length, while Cindy Falls ($7) closed late for third.

“She’s the kind of horse that doesn’t finish well if pushed early,” Hammond noted. “I took Luke’s advice — let her get comfortable and finish off, and it paid off.”

The Rising Stars Final caps off a season-long series of apprentice-only races throughout Victoria. Hammond’s win propelled her into a tie for second overall in the series standings with Sarah Field, both narrowly missing top honours by two points to Tom Prebble.

“It’s such a great initiative for apprentices,” Hammond said. “Even though I wasn’t in the running for the title, I really wanted this win. It’s an incredible feeling to get it done at Flemington.”

Series winner Prebble had a subdued finish on Saturday, coming last aboard Sound It Out for Chris Waller, but still joined an elite alumni list of past series champions.

“I’m disappointed with today’s result,” Prebble admitted. “But I’m thankful to RMBL for the opportunity and to Patrick and Michelle Payne for their continued support during the series.”

“Watching others ride at Flemington for the first time is special, and hopefully I can follow in the footsteps of names like McNeil and Brown.”

Check out the latest betting options for Rising Stars races at justhorseracing.com.au.