Talented filly Better Reflection assumed the role of giant-killer when she lowered the boom on Gem Of Scotland in the Gallopers Friday Night Members Draw Handicap at Doomben.
Gem Of Scotland was sent out a $1.35 favourite on Saturday but was unable to peg back Better Reflection ($5.50), who responded to a clever frontrunning ride by Ryan Maloney to win by a neck.
Better Reflection took her record to three wins from only four starts. The only time she suffered defeat was in the Magic Millions in January but had a genuine excuse.
“After the Millions we found she had a couple of bone spurs on her knees,” Rockhampton-based trainer John Wigginton said.
“The surgeon said we could inject her and try to go forward if we wanted to but I said, ‘No, we’ll clean her up and give her a proper spell’.”
Maloney said the script went to plan as soon as Better Reflection was able to dictate terms in front in the 1200m race.
“She put herself in a perfect position 100 yards after the start and when I was able to get there so easily I was able to back the speed off to my liking,” he said.
“When a horse pricks its ears at the half-mile it’s always a good sign that they’re going to lift late.”
Trainer Rex Lipp said Gem Of Scotland would have a short break before returning to racing in the summer.
Spring carnival plans for Jonker were left in limbo after he could manage only fifth as a $2.05 favourite in the Memberships @ BRC Plate (1110m).
Jockey James Orman said Jonker struggled to keep in touch in the early stages and was looking for more ground.
“He didn’t miss the kick. He was just slow to muster speed and once that happened it was all over for him but his best work was late in the race,” Orman said.
“The trip was too short for him as well.”
Capital Connection ($13) continued the trend of leaders winning when he outsped his rivals to win by 1-1/4 lengths, running a slick 33.33 seconds for his final 600m.
