Dabernig's first solo Group 1 achieved with Shadhavar in CF Orr Stakes

The victory of Shadhavar in the CF Orr Stakes undoubtedly provided Tom Dabernig with a unique sense of accomplishment, adding a distinct flavour to his 18 Group One career wins.

The Sandown race, serving as the final Group One event of the Victorian Spring for the second consecutive year, saw Shadhavar continue her impressive streak of form against a field of five, all of whom were accomplished Group One winners.

Starting as a $7 outsider with Kerrin McEvoy in the saddle, Shadhavar positioned herself just off the speed set by Beiwacht. She assumed command early in the straight, successfully fending off a late challenge from Pericles ($3.70) by three-quarters of a length. The $3.40 favourite, Jimmysstar, secured third place, trailing by two and a quarter lengths.

Dabernig, who transitioned to training independently in Warrnambool in 2021 after previous partnerships at Lindsay Park, celebrated his first individual Group One success with Shadhavar after eight attempts.

"It gives everyone a big thrill," Dabernig stated.

"She's a classic example of a horse we had since a yearling, and she's been able to develop and get to group one level.

"I think that when we got her to 1400 (metres) is when she really went to another level, and her three runs at this distance, she's now undefeated.

"When this Group One was on our doorstep, I said we're mad not to have a try because when these mares get in form like this, the purple patch that we talk of, you really have to take advantage of it."

A notable aspect of the C F Orr Stakes was the presence of Shadhavar's regular jockey, Craig Williams, riding the runner-up Pericles. Williams had a prior commitment to the Bjorn Baker-trained gelding, a commitment made before Shadhavar's victory in the Group 3 Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes at Flemington on Melbourne Cup Day.

Consequently, Kerrin McEvoy took the reins for Shadhavar. This marked McEvoy's first Group One win in Melbourne since he partnered Cross Counter to victory in the 2018 Melbourne Cup.

"I've known Tom since I was an apprentice back in our Lindsay Park days," McEvoy commented.

"I haven't ridden for Tom since he's gone out on his own, so it's really pleasing to get this win for him."

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