Yeomans and Shinn combine for special win at Sandown

Blake Shinn was visibly emotional after steering Enchanted Jenni to victory at Sandown, a result that delivered his partner Lucy Yeomans her first winner as a standalone trainer.

Yeomans only launched her independent operation last month after ending her partnership with Lloyd Kennewell, and Enchanted Jenni was just her second runner when lining up in the Sportsbet Fast Form Plate (1600m) on Wednesday.

While Yeomans kept her cool after the win, Shinn admitted the moment had hit him hard.

“It’s pretty special,” Shinn said.

“Lucy’s well respected. It’s not easy going out on your own, but she got good support from Tony Ottobre and a lot of people.

“It’s a good moment for her and it’s good to be a part of it.”

Sent out a $3.90 chance, Enchanted Jenni proved too strong in the finish, holding off the $1.95 favourite Crusader Voyage by three-quarters of a length, with Negentropy ($16) another close-up third.

Yeomans said it was an incredible feeling to strike so early in her new career. “I thought I would be a mess and crying, but I’m keeping it together,” she said.

“We’ve got six horses in work. Myself and my righthand girl Tayla. It’s a little team effort but I’m so delighted to get the job done so soon.

“It’s so rewarding, and I love being with all the horses every day.

“We’ve got a small team, but a massive thanks to Tony Ottobre.

“He’s supported me for a long time, way back when I was with Ciaron (Maher) and when in the partnership and when he knew I was going out on my own, he sent around three horses the day I opened.

“To get my second ever runner in my own name, a winner, and for Tony, it’s something I will always remember.”

Formerly with Alex Rae, Enchanted Jenni joined Yeomans’ team in good condition. “I galloped her, but I didn’t think she was fit enough, so we gave her a jump-out, which she won quite impressively,” Yeomans said. “Blake was quite keen to take the ride which is always a good sign and she got the job done.”

Attention now shifts to Moonee Valley where Yeomans will saddle Jenni The Fox in the Group 2 Stocks Stakes (1600m) on Friday night, following her first-up run in the Group 2 Let’s Elope Stakes (1400m) at Flemington.

“It was a last-minute nomination and acceptance but Tony’s pretty keen to run,” Yeomans said. “She’s in good order, she’s bounced through the run, and I think if she does go there, she will be running really well.”

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