Second time lucky
The thumbs between trainer Darren Bell and jockey Jason Holden said it all. They’d done it – won the R.M. Williams Magic Millions Sprint 1000m.
After placing second last year in the same race behind Helter Skelter’s race leading record breaking win, the Sprint was always in the pair’s sight. “Definitely, that was always our target,” said Bell.
“I wasn’t confident but I was excited. It’s very, very exciting, my biggest win as a trainer.”
Finishing strongly, Sir Monashee (G5 Monashee Mountain USA-Tres Rapide NZ) kept with the fast pace. “That’s the way my horse likes to race, it was set up beautifully.”
“If he can sit back where the pace is, he’ll always finish off strong. The first few races probably encouraged me a little bit. If they go fast enough, he’ll finish it off. Obviously that’s his career best I would say,” said Bell.
Sir Monashee finished one length ahead of $1.70 race favourite Kaphero (Steven King). Charmana Star (Scott Galloway) was a further three quarters of a length behind for third.
Jason Holder was happy to get the win on the gelding. “Great to be a part of it,” he said.
“This horse went super. I’m so happy for Darren. He’s a funny horse, he can go like he’s going to win easy but he gets there just in time.
“Darren said give him plenty of room, bide your time and I just went with the instructions and it came up well.
“We knew obviously 1000m the speed’s on, give him a cuddle and see what he can do in the end,” said Holder.
Bell outlined Sir Monashee’s form, “Very very honest, he’s missed a cheque maybe three times in his career.”
Bell discussed future Queensland Winter Racing Carnival plans, “One thousand’s probably his limit, so we’re a little bit limited in what we can choose.”
QUEENSLAND Racing web news: Hollie Roberts – March 24
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