Fawkner has underlined his Cox Plate credentials with a narrow win over Criterion in the Group One Caulfield Stakes.
Owned by Lloyd Williams, last year’s Caulfield Cup winner was given a box-seat run by jockey Nick Hall and always looked certain to be in the finish.
Fawkner – Caulfield Stakes 2014
But he had to work hard for his weight-for-age victory with Criterion finishing strongly from midfield to get close to the winner.
English galloper Side Glance made the running before holding down third, just in front of Sacred Falls who ran on from last.
“He just races perfectly and is showing that he is ready for the big races and further in distance too,” Hall said.
Nick Williams said his father’s patience continued to be rewarded with Fawkner.
“Dad has taken him along slowly winning the Caulfield Cup last year and now this race,” he said.
