Trainer Bjorn Baker singled out jockey Rachel King for particular praise after she partnered improving mare Monte Supreme to a crucial stakes win at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
“Rachel rode a brilliant race on Monte Supreme,” Baker enthused.
“There are not many riding better than her, I’m certain of that, and she helped Monte Supreme to a a very important stakes win.”
Monte Supreme was rewarded for her consistent recent form with a breakthrough black type win in the Listed $160,000 Lightning Handicap (1000m).
King’s stalking tactics paid off as Monte Supreme ($7) ran down Steady Ready ($4.80 equal favourite) to win by a half length with Zouperb ($11) a length and a half away third.
Flying Destiny’s winning momentum was halted with the sprinter finishing fourth while Tonkin ($4.80 equal favourite) was a disappointing 10th.
King decided to ignore the perceived track bias and backed her judgement by bringing Monte Supreme through near the inside to score.
“I didn’t have a lot of choice but to stick to the fence,” King explained.
“But I did walk the track before the races and I thought it felt pretty even right the way across. They’ve pushed the rail out so there’s some fresh ground and she really relished it.
“It makes a big difference when you can save ground on the fence. She was passing horses on the bridle which gave us both a lot of confidence.
“She’s a big strong mare, and she’s been running super but hasn’t had any luck with the barrier draws.
“She drew a bit better today and the blinkers went back on, which helped spark her up a little bit. She’s got an outstanding record over the trip, I think she’s only been beaten once over 1000 metres.”
Baker also considered a Randwick option for Monte Supreme but decided to target the Lightning instead.
“I just felt the Eagle Farm race might suit her better with the good tempo so it worked out well,” Baker said.
“I’m absolutely thrilled for the connections, the Bates family, as they invest a lot in this sport.
“Monte Supreme is a fast, quality mare and this is a super result.”
