Victorian mare Splash Back shines in Eagle Farm Victory Stakes
Splash Back, the Victorian mare, has her sights set on the Group One Tattersall's Tiara after overshadowing a host of top sprinters to claim victory in the Victory Stakes held at Eagle Farm.
Having won the Stocks Stakes at Moonee Valley in springtime, Splash Back at $8.50 had settled midfield to Victory Stakes foe In Flight during the Sapphire Stakes (1200m) at Randwick previously, but managed to battle through the testing heavy ground on Saturday.
Ridden by Michael Rodd who kept her pinned to the inside, Grahame Begg's six-year-old mare exploded along the rail in the closing stages to pip Payline ($18), as Warnie ($6.50) came home third, leaving Group 1 winners Transatlantic (fourth), Lady Of Camelot (fifth), and Private Harry (eighth) in behind.
Rodd revealed a lack of optimism as Splash Back was back in the field at the home bend, surprised by the gap that appeared right in front.
"They went along at a decent clip, and I was out the back and wasn't going anywhere straightening up," Rodd said.
"I was struggling a bit and thought, I'm staying on the inside."
"I couldn't believe it was opening up in front of my eyes, and she will be even better when she gets out over a little bit further."
With trainer Grahame Begg not present at Eagle Farm, Jack Lake from the stable lauded Rodd's choice to stick to the rail.
"Just to get up on the rail and save ground was crucial," Lake said.
"She is spot-on for the Tatt's Tiara."
"She has beaten some good horses today and we always thought she was up to that class."
On the same card earlier, the Chris and Corey Munce-trained Brave Monarch scored in the Queensland Guineas (1600m), earning a shot at the Stradbroke Handicap (1400m).
He heads next to the Fred Best Classic (1400m) at Eagle Farm on May 30, where success might open doors to the Stradbroke as per Chris Munce.
"There is still a long way to go," Munce said.
"His rating probably doesn't get him there, and he will probably have to go around in the Fred Best and win to get in the Stradbroke. But it's a possibility."
The three-year-old Brave Monarch boasts five wins from seven starts, this Guineas triumph his second black-type score after the Listed Daybreak Lover (1400m) previously.
Check the online bookmakers for top Victory Stakes betting options.
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