Godolphin trainer James Cummings has praised the efforts of his two placegetters in the inaugural running of the All-Star Mile at Flemington.
Hartnell ($13) led home home his more highly fancied stablemate Alizee ($4.20) in finishing second and third behind Mystic Journey in the $5 million All Star Mile on Saturday.
Only a nose separated the two Godolphin runners at the end of the 1600m race, finishing 1-1/4 lengths behind Mystic Journey.
“They were set for the big race and they ran slashing placings, the pair of them,” Cummings said.
“Hartnell savaged the line.
“He was following a couple of capable horses at the top of the straight but had to switch inside and unfortunately he didn’t get the momentum when he wanted it.
“Alizee, she ran terrific. I think that is probably right up there with her best runs but we’ve bumped into the best Tasmanian filly for 100 years.”
Cummings said the All-Star Mile concept would continue to grow.
“Look at first to sixth, it’s a serious race,” Cummings said.
“If you got that result in the Doncaster you’d be saying it’s one of the best Doncasters of all time.”
Cummings said Hartnell would return to Sydney to continue his preparation during the autumn carnival while he’ll need to consider Alizee’s immediate future.
“Hartnell will enjoy going to the Doncaster Mile in three weeks,” Cummings said.
“Alizee I’m not sure. I’m wary of her on heavy tracks.”
