A frustrating Melbourne spring ended on the highest note possible for premier Sydney trainer Chris Waller when Albert The Fat claimed a last-stride victory in the Group One Emirates Stakes.
It was a double celebration with Mark Zahra taking his first Group One win in Melbourne after he got the call-up on race eve to replace Damien Oliver who withdrew an appeal against suspension.
A suspension also cost Nash Rawiller the ride when Waller booked Oliver before Rawiller had a day shaved off his ban.
The last Group One of the carnival, the 1600m Emirates attracted a field of 16 including three from the Waller camp – Albert The Fat, Red Tracer and Danleigh who Rawiller ended up riding into eighth position.
Love Conquers All, who has two recent wins over Albert The Fat, was sent out the $6 favourite with the winner a $17 chance.
“Second-up he was disappointing but he bounced back last start at Caulfield and the writing was on the wall,” Waller said.
“I think his draw (nine) was perfect.
“He likes a bit of room and doesn’t need to get there any sooner.”
Toorak Toff led the field at the top of the straight but once again proved suspect at the distance and had no answers when the challengers came.
King’s Rose ($11) raced to the front and looked as if she had the race in her keeping until Albert The Fat claimed her to win by a short half-head.
Secret Admirer ($6.50) was another length away third.
“I feel for Damien,” Zahra said.
“But it’s great to win. I got the call from my manager yesterday and was very happy to get the ride.”
Albert The Fat won the 2010 BTC Cup when trained in Queensland by Eden Petrie.
The horse was transferred to Paul Messara when Petrie took the job as his Queensland foreman.
The gelding was subsequently transferred to Waller.
“We have had him for this preparation and he came to us in great order from his other trainers,” Waller said.
“It’s hard to think he is a seven-year-old, he jumps around like a two-year-old.
“It’s a great thrill to win this race.
“We have a big team in place and the system is working well.”
New Zealand star Jimmy Choux finished off the race well for fourth, a half-neck behind Secret Admirer.
Trainer Grahame Begg was happy with the performance of Epsom Handicap winner Secret Admirer who was having just her 10th start on Saturday.
“She’s had six starts this preparation and has done really well,” he said.
Toorak Toff’s stablemate Pinnacles suffered a broken sesamoid during the race and was being treated for the injury.
Waller said the Perth summer carnival was an option now for Albert The Fat with the Group One Railway Stakes on November 19 a target.
AAP TURF
