Progressive mare Chidiac has scored an important black-type win in the Hawkesbury Crown
Country Championships Final winner Chidiac has made a successful transition to stakes grade with a narrow but determined victory in the Group Three Hawkesbury Crown.
In doing so, she has provided rising apprentice Braith Nock his 300th career win and an early double on the stand-alone card after his triumph aboard Bella Khadijah in the Midway Handicap (1500m).
Owned by business giant, Gerry Harvey, Chidiac is building an imposing record with seven wins from 12 starts, but Saturday’s success is arguably her most important given the boost to her residual value.
“This was stepping over the line for me (Group race) as I like to keep them graded,” winning trainer Brett Cavanough said.
“But with mares, you have to step them out of their zone for black type, and now she has got the job done she is very valuable.
“She was worth $25,000 when I got her, but Gerry will probably discount her for $1 million now.”
Cavanough, who trains in partnership with his daughter Georgie, was equally thrilled to provide Nock with a career milestone.
Last season’s champion Sydney apprentice, Nock is leading the title race again this year with 25 city wins and fittingly brought up his 300th overall for his Scone-based master.
“I had that in mind all the time, I wanted to give him his 300th winner,” Cavanough said.
“It’s a great result for Braith, the stable, our staff. Everyone involved.”
Cavanough was unsure where Chidiac would head next, but said he would give thought to targeting the Group 3 Dark Jewel Classic (1400m) at his home track of Scone in a fortnight.
“But it is job done for the time being. We will see how she pulls up and go from there,” he said.
“The Dark Jewel is 1400 metres, and she gets that, so a bit to think about.”
Chidiac ($4.80) prevailed in a photo finish over Surfin’ Bird ($5) with leader Arriving Home ($20) holding on for third.
