Unlikely star steals the show at Caulfield

A horse defeated by a collective 50 lengths in three career starts stole the show at Caulfield Racecourse on Saturday.

While no star on the track, Viewbank Icon – who raced as Grande Lago for Colin and Cindy Alderson – proved that racetrack ability is no prerequisite for Off the Track success with an impressive victory in the 2016 Racing Victoria (RV) Off the Track Triequithon.

Held exclusively for retired racehorses, the Off the Track Triequithon saw 12 of the state’s most promising 1* horse and rider combinations converge on the Caulfield Racecourse front lawn in search of a lucrative victory in the $15,000 event.

Piloted to perfection by Anna Church, Viewbank Icon led from start-to-finish with strong performances in the dressage, cross country and show jumping phases.

“I’m so excited, I can’t believe it,” Church said.

“To lead from start to finish is so good, it was a true show of the eventing spirit to lead in all three phases.

“I was really happy with his (dressage) test, he was very obedient. It hasn’t really sunk in yet but I’m absolutely over the moon.”

RV Chief Executive, Bernard Saundry, said he was delighted to see so many retired racehorses thriving following the conclusion of their time on the track.

“Racing Victoria is extremely proud to continue our support of the Off the Track Triequithon, and it was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the feats of these fantastic retired racehorses,” Mr Saundry said.

“The public have turn out in droves today and were really appreciative of the performances of the riders and horses.”

Jackie Wright finished second overall aboard Tetley, with Briorni Butler and Whiskey Hunter in third.

Tayla Childs, the teenage daughter of champion jockey Greg Childs, finished in fourth aboard Haka Man. Beck Paech rounded out the top five aboard the flashy Eurozone.

Click here to learn more about the Racing Victoria Off the Track Triequithon and here to learn more about the Off the Track program.