The Lord Mayor on way to Group 1 Metropolitan

The Lord Mayor

The Lord Mayor has cemented his place as a spring carnival player for trainer Chris Waller with a benchmark victory at Randwick.

Waller will now set him on a path to the Group One Metropolitan Handicap on September 29 after he beat stablemates Quick Defence and Brimham Rocks in a tight finish to Saturday’s 2000m-race.

Sent out at $7 and ridden by James McDonald, The Lord Mayor had a head to spare on Quick Defence with a half head to Brimham Rocks.

Favourite All Too Soon finished eighth after getting held up for a run.

“He had no luck in the (Australian) Derby,” Waller said.

“He clipped heels and took no part in it.

“Congratulations to the boys from New Zealand for leaving him here.

“He will most likely go to another 2000-metre race at Rosehill in three weeks and then back up into the Metrop.”

The Lord Mayor ran fourth in the New Zealand Derby when trained by Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott before he was sent to Waller.

Quick Defence was supposed to be on the ferry to Tasmania but has more than likely extended his Sydney stay with his last-start win and his second on Saturday.

“John Blacker who will train him is here today,” Waller said.

“But with the way prize money is here in New South Wales now he might be here a bit longer.”

Prize money increases came into effect in NSW on Saturday when the support races on the Group program were all worth $125,000. – NZ Racing News

Recent News
21 December 2024

Dream effort from Super Seth 3YO

Super Seth colt Savour The Dream showcased his class at Eagle Farm today with a dominant victory over 1600 metres. Trained by Bevan Laming and ridden by Martin Harley, the three-year-old executed a patient, weight-conscious strategy to perfection, storming home to secure a stylish win, further proving his bright future.

Read More
20 December 2024

Sun Gift ready for sterner tests

Danny O’Brien will aim to elevate Sun Gift (Savabeel ex Sunniva) after her commanding Yarra Valley win on Friday. The Waikato Stud-bred mare, in fine form, eased to victory over 1950m, her second in three starts. Stable rep Jack Howard praised her versatility and hinted at targeting city success next.

Read More