Premier Sydney trainer Chris Waller was left to play a rare supporting role in a metropolitan-class staying race when veteran Queenslander Trajet scored a surprise win at Scone on Saturday.
Much of Waller’s success in recent seasons has been built on winning races with imported horses over extended distances but his two runners in the Cressfield Handicap (2200m) could do no better than fill the minor placings behind seven-year-old Trajet.
Trajet - Photo by Steve Hart
Given a charmed run in front by James McDonald, Trajet ($12), shot away with a big lead in the straight and held his advantage to beat the Waller-trained stablemates Mulqen and Black Jag.
“I know he’s old but he’s actually a pretty promising stayer,” trainer Liam Birchley said.
Trajet is only into his second preparation under Birchley’s care and the Eagle Farm trainer says he wants to think beyond an average city race.
“I might even chuck in a nomination now for the Brisbane Cup,” he said. “I know that might be aiming a bit high but after today it is worth some thought.
“Ultimately the Queensland Cup (over 3200m) is his goal.”
Trajet ran a record 2:15.77 for the distance that is rarely raced over at Scone.
Birchley made a flying start to racing in the eastern states with top filly Missy Longstocking winning at Doomben 25 minutes after Trajet’s success.
Sent out odds-on, Miss Longstocking was headed before regaining the lead close to the line.
McDonald was also in stellar early form, steering Agent to a fast-finishing win in the Kia Ora Sprint (1100m) at Scone.
