The Chris Anderson trained Epic Girl seldom runs a bad race and today was the day when that consistency was rewarded as the Shamus Award five-year-old proved to be too strong for her rivals in the 1200m Open Handicap at Eagle Farm.
Epic Girl was another on the day who opened up a winning break a long way from home leaving the others only chasing for the minor placings.
Apprentice jockey Adin Thompson looked back on a number of occasions, checking for any dangers, but he need not have bothered as Epic Girl got home with one-and-a-half lengths to spare at the line.
“She was on a seven-day backup … and back from the 1300m,” said Chris Anderson.
“I love it when a plan comes together. Obviously, Adin (Thompson) did everything we asked.
“He sat outside the leader and she was very strong late.
“I said before the race that she is one of the toughest horses I have trained. Youi just know every time you go to the races she puts in one hundred percent.
“Sometimes … with all horses in races … things just don’t pan out in a race the way you want them to go, but things worked out today.
“I’ve got to pay homage to Hannah Bayliss who has been with the horse and done all of the work with this horse from day one.
“She’s a bit teary about the win but you can understand why. When it first entered the yard we didn’t necessarily expect too much of her … and it has now won over half a million.
“A massive, big thanks to (owner) Bob Watson and his family. They are great supporters of our stable.
“Epic Girl was off to the breeding barn after today. I’m going to leave that decision to Bob Watson. His decision to run today was a stroke of genius after Hannah was happy with her all week. Epic Girl will be a mum at some stage.”
Adin Thompson wasn’t surprised by the win.
“I knew the race would pan out perfectly for her today, even from the wide gate” said Thompson.
“I knew Hard Stride would lead and we could sit beside it … get the gun run … and, yeah, she does what she does.”
