Althoff triumphs over G1 contenders at Rosehill

In a notable performance at Rosehill, Althoff, despite being less heralded than some of his Chris Waller stablemates, secured a significant victory over Group 1 performer Attica, guided by an astute ride from Zac Lloyd.

Positioned patiently in the midfield, Althoff ($3.60) navigated through the field in the final stages, unleashing a strong finish to win by a decisive 2-1/4 lengths from Attica ($3.10 fav). Fully Lit ($7), a placegetter in the Epsom Handicap, finished a further short neck back in third position.

"They never stop surprising you," Waller commented. "He's always been a consistent horse. He's had a few niggles with his knees, and he's obviously matured now and put all those little things behind him. Beautiful ride. Zac is riding with confidence. Horses feel that and that's how he won."

Althoff had shown promising form at his previous start, finishing second to Carbonados at Rosehill on August 1. Waller believes that despite his occasional tendency to be costly for backers, the five-year-old is capable of competing effectively in lesser stakes races when conditions are favourable.

"I know he's not an easy horse to follow, but when they return like that you like to think they can build towards something, and he did," Waller explained. "He's never been one we've thought too highly of, but we've thought enough of him to keep him going. He's a good, Saturday money-spinning horse and if he had the perfect conditions, a race at Newcastle like the Cameron Handicap, or those type of second-tier Listed or Group Three races (could suit)."

Attica, burdened with seven kilograms more than the winner, ran on gamely to claim the runner-up spot.

According to stable representative Brave Pride, the team had expected Attica to display more acceleration based on his trial performances, but his run indicated a preference for longer distances.

"Just the way he trialled, we thought he might have been a bit sharper today," Brave Pride said. "He ground away nicely. (Jockey) Adam (Hyeronimus) was happy with him. He just said he probably wanted to be in that rhythm a bit longer over 2000 metres. We'll press on, probably with the idea of getting more towards a mile-and-a-quarter."

The victory by Althoff contributed to a four-win haul for Waller on the day, with Lloyd achieving a riding treble. Those interested in the upcoming races can find comprehensive racing betting markets at various online bookmakers.