Michael Hellyer key to Monaco Snob streak

Image: Darren Winningham

Robert Heathcote was quick to give credit to jockey Michael Hellyer for his gelding Monaco Snob's fourth straight win

Trainer Robert Heathcote was quick to give credit to jockey Michael Hellyer for his gelding Monaco Snob’s fourth straight win at Doomben on Saturday.

Hellyer and Monaco Snob ($3.30) won a slog up the straight to beat the favourite Impavido ($2.60) by a half neck with a short half head Tucano ($7) in the Cory Johnston Staff Handicap (2200m).

Heathcote believes Monaco Snob is the most improved horse in his stable and Hellyer the most improved rider in the state.

“He really has come of age as a jockey. He lost nothing in the battle with our top jockey Jeff Lloyd in that race,” Heathcote said.

Heathcote will carry on with Monaco Snob this campaign but the $1 million Magic Millions Trophy (2200m) in January isn’t a wild dream.

“And I suppose a trip south isn’t that fanciful either,” he said.