Jigsaw has earned a start in a $1 million race on his home track at Cranbourne after he outsped his rivals to score at Moonee Valley.
The Cindy Alderson-trained sprinter registered back-to-back wins when taking out the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1200m) on Saturday after returning to winning form in the Apache Cat Classic (1200m) at Cranbourne a little over two weeks ago.
The win also provided Alderson’s apprentice Logan Bates with his biggest success in just over two years of riding.
With the other speed runner Tropicus withdrawn at the barriers on veterinary advice, Jigsaw was afforded an easy lead.
Turning for home, Bates gave Jigsaw ($19) his head and the gelding ran out a 1-¾ length winner from Klabel ($26) with Bridal Waltz ($5.50) a head away third.
Alderson can now swing her attention to the $1 million The Meteorite (1200m) at Cranbourne on November 22.
“I only came here to get that ticket,” Alderson said.
“He’s always been a funny little horse. He always has his seasons and I did ride him before he won at Cranbourne and I thought I have not felt this horse like this ever.
“Normally I wouldn’t back him up, but (luckily) I did today.”
Alderson was full of praise for Bates who earlier the day rode a winner at the provincial meeting at Yarra Valley before driving just over an hour to partner Jigsaw.
“It has been a bit like Jigsaw, there have been a few blockages in the way, but we’ve got there now and he’s a great kid,” Alderson said.
“He’s not a kid, he’s a man, and I’m so proud of him.
“To come here while still claiming on such a big day, and to just nail it like that and have the confidence in himself, I’m so impressed with him and the horse.
“It is really special that the horse has won on such a special day.”
Bates’ confidence grew in Jigsaw when the sprinter pricked his ears as the field raced down the side and headed to the home turn.
“That’s when you know he’s loving his work,” Bates said.
“I thought he’d be pretty hard to beat off the corner when I gave him a little click up and he surged up underneath me.”
Bates said the significance of his success on Jigsaw had not sunk in.
“I’ve only been riding a tick over two years and to knock over a Group 2 so early in my career is incredible,” Bates said.
