Hugh Bowman became the first jockey in almost 40 years to win back-to-back Victoria Derbys when Sangster outgunned Induna to claim the Classic.
Bowman won the blue riband 12 months ago aboard Lion Tamer, who sadly broke down and was euthanased after the Cox Plate last weekend.
Sangster winning the AAMI Victorian Derby (Group 1) at Flemington - photo by Race Horse Photos Australia
But the news was all good for Bowman at Flemington on Saturday when he became the first jockey since Roy Higgins in 1972 and 1973 to win the Victoria Derby (2500m) in successive years.
“It’s a terrific thrill. This is the cream of the crop when it comes to racing in Australia and I feel pretty honoured to win it for the past two years now,” Bowman said.
“I was three wide with cover but I was happy to be there.
“I kept a bit in the tank and I was very concerned the last 50 (metres) because he was having a look around … but he got home for me.”
Sangster hit the front early in the straight but had enough in reserve to hold off the unlucky Induna, who was pushed wide early in the race by another runner.
Sabrage fought on bravely for third while favourite Manawanui didn’t stay the trip.
Winning trainer Trent Busuttin was thrilled to see his long-range plan come to fruition after Sangster had been placed in both the Spring Champion Stakes at Randwick and the Norman Robinson at Caulfield in the lead-up.
“Fantastic. We set out three months ago and set the horse for the Derby,” Busuttin said.
“It’s unbelievable we got here and the horse has done the job.
“It’s been frustrating all the way through but we picked up the big one.”
AAP TURF
