Jigsaw too fast in the 2025 McEwen Stakes

Jigsaw’s high-speed heroics at Moonee Valley have earned him a start in the $1 million The Meteorite at Cranbourne next month after the Cindy Alderson-trained sprinter dominated the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1200m).

Under a faultless front-running ride from apprentice jockey Logan Bates, Jigsaw ($19) took control early and was never headed, sprinting clear to win by 1¾ lengths over Klabel ($26) with Bridal Waltz ($5.50) a head away in third.

The win followed his recent success in the Apache Cat Classic (1200m) and capped off a breakout day for Bates, who secured his first Group 2 triumph in just over two years of riding.

“I only came here to get that ticket,” Alderson said.

“He’s always been a funny little horse. He always has his seasons and I did ride him before he won at Cranbourne and I thought I have not felt this horse like this ever.

“Normally I wouldn’t back him up, but (luckily) I did today.”

Alderson praised Bates’ determination after riding at Yarra Valley earlier in the day before making the quick trip to partner Jigsaw at The Valley.

“It has been a bit like Jigsaw, there have been a few blockages in the way, but we’ve got there now and he’s a great kid,” Alderson said.

“He’s not a kid, he’s a man, and I’m so proud of him.

“To come here while still claiming on such a big day, and to just nail it like that and have the confidence in himself, I’m so impressed with him and the horse.”

Bates said he knew mid-race that Jigsaw was in the zone.

“That’s when you know he’s loving his work,” Bates said.

“I thought he’d be pretty hard to beat off the corner when I gave him a little click up and he surged up underneath me.”

“I’ve only been riding a tick over two years and to knock over a Group 2 so early in my career is incredible,” he added.

Fans can follow Jigsaw’s next run in The Meteorite by checking prices and offers on top Australian betting sites such as Sportsbet, Ladbrokes and TAB.