Attrition triumphs over Lindermann in the Hill Stakes

Mitchell Freedman, the young trainer, declared 'it's what you do it for' as his tough campaigner Attrition battled past fellow war horse Lindermann to secure his second victory in the $2 million Hill Stakes.

Attrition, who won the Group 2 feature in 2024 and finished second to Lindermann twelve months prior, ultimately claimed the honour roll for a second time, renewing their competitive spirit at Rosehill on Saturday.

In a dramatic conclusion, Attrition ($6), expertly ridden by Jamie Mott, managed to overhaul Nash Rawiller on Lindermann ($1.70 fav) in the final strides to claim a half-neck victory, with Eliyass ($9) finishing a further three-quarters of a length behind in third.

'If there is any vision of me jumping up and down, I might win the vertical leap at the AFL draft if they want to put me in after that,' a jubilant Freedman quipped.

'It was obviously a really competitive race up there on speed. The first three in running were first three across the line. Nash rated his horse to perfection, Jamie Mott pulled out at the right time, and it was a good dual the last fifty metres. When they went past me, I could see him start to put his head in front and it's such a good feeling. These are the things you soak up. It's what you do it for, and we'll certainly enjoy it.'

Freedman, whose stable operates out of Ballarat, Victoria, meticulously planned Attrition's preparation to target the Hill Stakes (1900m) at his fourth run of the campaign, mirroring his approach for the past two editions.

The gelding now boasts five wins from 33 career starts, alongside 10 other placings, with his earnings soaring past $5.5 million following his Saturday success.

Freedman indicated that Attrition has been an extraordinary horse for his stable and expressed confidence in the horse's ability to return next year for a chance at a third consecutive win.

'We'll mark it in the calendar, mark it as the fourth-up run, and do our best,' he stated. 'It's not too many times he's out of that weight-for-age level and he keeps showing up. He's a beautiful, sound horse. He's got the best temperament that you'll ever come across and he's a much loved member of our team, that's for sure.'

Those keen to back the next champion should explore the racing betting markets available at online bookmakers.