Lovethebeaches has thrilled racegoers with a stunning front-running performance in the $100,000 Stayers Cup at Randwick.
Paul King took control of the race over the 3200m Sydney Cup course aboard the Steve Hodge-trained mare who was an estimated 30 lengths in front coming to the home turn.
King rode Lovethebeaches ($18) down the straight with confidence as favourite Our Voodoo Prince ($3.50) made his challenge.
But the post came too soon and the Lovethebeaches had five lengths to spare on Our Voodoo Prince with Husson Choice ($4) another head away third.
Although it was King’s first ride on the mare, he said she was always travelling within herself.
“Steve explained to me that she is one-paced so I let her roll and she was always comfortable,” King said.
“I knew I was a fair way in front but she wasn’t going to stop and it was all over at the half mile (800m).
“She could have gone halfway round again.”
Hodge has no specific plans for the six-year-old but may consider sending her north for the Queensland Cup (3200m) at the Sunshine Coast on July 4.
“We’ll have a look at the program,” he said.
“She’s not the sort of horse that can sit and sprint and I knew she wouldn’t stop.
“I will admit I was a bit worried about how far in front she was but at the 100 metres I was pretty happy.
“There aren’t that many options for her and I’m just thrilled she has won this race.”
