Rural star Chidiac triumphs in Hawkesbury Crown
The Country Championships Final champion Chidiac has adeptly stepped up to stakes level, securing a determined narrow victory in the Group Three Hawkesbury Crown.
This feat gifted young rider Braith Nock his 300th professional success and an initial double on the isolated card after prevailing on Bella Khadijah in the Midway Handicap (1500m).
In the ownership of tycoon Gerry Harvey, Chidiac continues to compile an impressive ledger boasting seven victories in 12 attempts, yet Saturday's result could be deemed her standout for elevating her resale potential.
"This was stepping over the line for me (Group race) as I like to keep them graded," winning trainer Brett Cavanough said.
"But with mares, you have to step them out of their zone for black type, and now she has got the job done she is very valuable.
"She was worth $25,000 when I got her, but Gerry will probably discount her for $1 million now."
Training in tandem with daughter Georgie, Cavanough expressed equal joy at marking Nock's career achievement.
The previous season's leading Sydney apprentice, Nock holds the early lead this year with 25 urban wins and aptly registered his 300th career victory under his Scone mentor.
"I had that in mind all the time, I wanted to give him his 300th winner," Cavanough said.
"It's a great result for Braith, the stable, our staff. Everyone involved."
Next steps for Chidiac are unclear for Cavanough, though he mentioned pondering an entry in the Group 3 Dark Jewel Classic (1400m) back at Scone in a fortnight.
"But it is job done for the time being. We will see how she pulls up and go from there," he said.
"The Dark Jewel is 1400 metres, and she gets that, so a bit to think about."
In a thrilling photo, $4.80 favourite Chidiac held off Surfin' Bird ($5) while front-runner Arriving Home ($20) stayed on for third.
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