Connections of the Ron Leemon-trained Manawanui pulled the right rein by paying a $50,000 late entry fee into Saturday’s $1 million Group One Golden Rose at Rosehill when the gelding led most of the way to win the feature.
Beautifully ridden by Glyn Schofield, Manawanui collected the $600,000 first prize when he held off the wayward favourite Smart Missile to win by a short neck. 
Foxwedge was third across the line but relegated to fourth after a successful protest by Kerrin McEvoy on Helmet.
It was Manawanui’s fourth win from five starts and left his emotional trainer almost speechless.
“Amazing,” Leemon said.
“It’s tremendous, it’s a dream come true.
“A great thrill, great thrill.
“I’m just so pleased for everyone in the stable.”
The Anthony Cummings-trained Smart Missile, previously unbeaten, settled last in the six-horse field and was giving Manawanui a big start entering the straight in the 1400m event.
He was doing his best work late but veered out in the final 200 metres and was unable to bridge the gap.
AAP TURF
