Cosmic Crusader's Turnbull Stakes victory points to Cox Plate tilt

Pakenham trainer Andrea Leek has celebrated her most substantial success to date as Cosmic Crusader triumphed in the Turnbull Stakes at Flemington. Leek is now aiming for an even greater prize, hoping to return to headquarters for Australia's premier weight-for-age race, the Cox Plate, with the Perth-owned galloper.

The prestigious Cox Plate, typically hosted at Moonee Valley, will this year take place at Flemington on October 24 due to extensive track redevelopment at its usual venue.

Under jockey Willie Pike, Cosmic Crusader, a $8 chance, relished the heavy track conditions, winning by 1-¾ lengths from Light Infantry Man ($26). Aeliana ($3.80) finished a length behind in third.

Leek shared that maintaining her focus on her horses has provided a buffer against personal pressures, with her husband John currently disqualified and unable to remain on their property.

"I think I've been lucky to have this focus," Leek said. "It's been tough on the family, and I have just focussed on my horses and that is what has got me through."

Cosmic Crusader had not previously raced beyond 1800 metres but handled the step up in distance without issue.

The trainer highlighted the former Perth galloper's superior race fitness.

"I just think, I shouldn't say it, but he was the fittest in the field," Leek commented. "He's had a few runs now, I thought he had come on from the last run, and I just thought he would run the 2000 (metres)."

She continued, "He's a tricky horse but I sent a message to Bob (Peters) this morning, (saying) there's no excuses today. He's spot on and thank God I was right."

This was Cosmic Crusader's first experience on a heavy track, although he boasted a record of five wins from six starts on soft surfaces.

Leek had no doubts about the gelding's ability to cope with Saturday's going, having worked him on a heavy track at Pakenham.

"It was about a heavy 15 one morning," Leek recalled. "The tracks were closed but they were good enough to let us work him because he was going into one of his previous races. He went across the top of it like it was a good track and I was pretty confident he would handle the wet today."

She concluded, "I can't wait to go and see the horse and see how he's pulled up. It was a great ride from Willie, I'm very appreciative of the Peters family and I'm thrilled for my whole family."

Pike indicated that Cosmic Crusader's return to a forgiving surface was key to his success on Saturday, after finishing second to Birdman in the Underwood Stakes at Caulfield on September 19.

"What might have brought us unstuck last start was the firmer deck," Pike stated. "To get good cut out of it today, I think it wasn't quite as heavy as I initially thought, and he loved it."

He added, "He was back being edgy today. I like him when he's up and about, throwing his head. I like this version of him."

The victory in the Turnbull Stakes serves as an ideal preparation for Cosmic Crusader's Cox Plate campaign. For those interested in placing a wager, explore the latest racing betting markets at racing betting markets.