Apprentice Laura Lafferty says she has finally got the monkey off the back after riding Intredpidacious to victory at Caulfield.
The John O’Shea -trained filly took out the L. U. Simon Builders Handicap (1100m) at Caulfield on Saturday to provide Lafferty with her maiden city victory.
But it was a close call with Intrepidacious , the $4.60 favourite, lasting by a nose to defeat the Damien Oliver-ridden Plaquette ($5.50) with Najmah ($5.50) a half-neck away third.
Lafferty had her first ride in 2019 and has ridden 88 winners on the country circuit of Victoria.
However, her previous 45 rides in the metropolitan area had resulted in six second placings and five thirds.
“These city meetings are just another level,” Laffery said.
“I’ve been unfortunate the last couple of times, but I’ve been keeping positive. I work hard on that, wake up the next day and go again.
“The country has kept me going and I’m just thankful of getting these opportunities in town, even though they were near misses, I just feel very honoured to be on chances.
“It is so much better to be coming second, than last.”
Lafferty said she feels improvement in her riding after every mount she has in town and was thankful for O’Shea’s support on Saturday.
“I’ve had most of my rides for Ciaron Maher and Lindsey Smith,” Lafferty said.
“As long as I’m getting close, I’m happy, and hopefully I can get a few more winners now.”
