UPDATE: In a stunning display of resilience, Vivy Air surged to victory in the Five Diamonds just five days after competing in the Big Dance, boosting her career earnings to nearly $3 million. Jockey Reece Jones executed a masterful ride along the rails at Randwick, narrowly defeating Transatlantic and Militarize for the win.
This remarkable win highlights the incredible toughness of the five-year-old mare, who finished second just days prior to stablemate Gringotts. Trainer Ciaron Maher expressed confidence in Vivy Air’s ability to perform, noting she recovered exceptionally well after her last race. Following a soothing swim at the beach and light training, Vivy Air was primed for another challenge.
Jones stepped in for suspended jockey Andrew Adkins, showcasing his skills and the mare’s growing confidence as she tackled the 1,800-meter distance. The victory marks a significant moment for Maher’s team, as they continue to make waves in the racing circuit.
“Vivy Air’s performance was outstanding. She’s shown incredible spirit,” said assistant trainer Johann Gerard-Dubord.
Meanwhile, the racing spotlight shifted as William Haggas returned to the UK after a rare Australian campaign without a win. His runner, Bullet Point, struggled in the $2 million main event, finishing last.
In other racing news, Arctic Glamour stole the show in the Hot Danish Stakes, with trainer Gerald Ryan becoming emotional over the mare’s unexpected triumph. Originally considered for retirement after struggling on poor tracks in Queensland, Arctic Glamour defied the odds by winning as a $41 outsider. Ryan praised her resilience and was thrilled to see her return to form.
“I love her, and she should have won more than what she’s won,” Ryan remarked.
The win was a heartwarming moment for the team, as Arctic Glamour had faced numerous challenges including bad barriers and wet tracks throughout her career. Ryan confirmed that the decision to keep her racing was the right one.
In the two-year-old feature, the Golden Gift, Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott celebrated their third consecutive victory with Revengeance. The horse, an experienced racer, showcased determination, pulling away from competitors to secure a win amid stiff competition.
Jockey Josh Parr expressed confidence in the horse’s abilities and noted a significant improvement in his performance compared to previous races.
“He was on the front foot, full of beans, sending a message to the others,” Parr stated.
Fans and followers of Australian horse racing have much to look forward to as Gringotts prepares to return to Kembla to defend The Gong, while other contenders like Lugh and Darnation are also gearing up for upcoming races.
The excitement continues to build in the racing community, with the results from these recent events promising to shape the future of the season. Stay tuned for more updates as these talented horses compete for glory.
