Jett Stanley experienced the biggest victory of his career in extraordinary fashion after learning he had won the Adelaide Cup while jogging back to the mounting yard.
The young jockey had been dislodged from American Wolf just after the finish and was making his way back when paramedics confirmed he had narrowly claimed the photo finish.
In a thrilling duel to the line, the Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young-trained American Wolf edged out Highland Bling, representing the Phillip Stokes and Lachie Neindorf combination.
Stanley, just 21 years old, said the moment was surreal as he awaited confirmation of the result.
“The ambos asked whether I was okay? I said to them tell me the result of the photo and I’ll tell you. One of the ambos said American Wolf and you’ve won. The limp cleared up quickly.” Stanley told racing.com
“I actually said are you joking and then the crowd started yelling. It’s something I won’t forget.”
Stanley celebrated the dramatic result by throwing his arms into the air before being reunited with American Wolf, who had been caught by the clerk of the course and brought back for the official return.
The rider said the staying feature marked the standout success of his career, even eclipsing his victory aboard Asva in the Launceston Cup less than a fortnight earlier.
“He’s a proper stayer. Hopefully we can see him on the first Tuesday in November,” Stanley said.
The young hoop also reflected on a hectic fortnight that had seen him travel roughly 18,000 kilometres riding across the country, including stops in Darwin and Launceston.
His busy schedule continued over the weekend, riding at Murray Bridge on Saturday before heading to Stony Creek on Sunday and then returning to Adelaide.
Stanley is now set to fly to Sydney on Monday night where he will partner Jenni The Fox for owner Tony Ottobre and trainer Ciaron Maher in Saturday’s Coolmore Classic.
“I’ve done a Group 3, now a Group 2 today and hopefully I tick off a Group 1 on Saturday.”
