All wins in racing are special, but when Type Won gets up and scores in her races, it holds added sentimental attachment for trainer, Kieran McDonagh.
Justifying warm favouritism Wednesday, Type Won, ridden by William Pike, skipped away in the straight to win her 1000m event by 1 ¾ lengths.
Type Won is named in honour of McDonagh and his partner Jacki Taylor’s son Finley, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes four years ago.
McDonagh bought Type Won for $2000 at an online auction sale and her second victory from 15 starts boosted stake earnings to $60,590.
To promote awareness and help raise much-needed funds, McDonagh donates 10 percent of Type Won’s prizemoney to WA Diabetes.
Diabetes is a challenge for anyone to overcome, let alone young children, but McDonagh says Finley, aged eight, has faced his illness bravely.
“It’s very emotional this win,” McDonagh said.
“It’s a very hard disease to get a control of.
“Every day is a battle and people don’t know how hard it is.
“But he is a brave fighter.”
McDonagh hopes Type Won can pave the way and inspire stable mate Cockney Crew on Saturday.
The Maschino gelding has suffered chequered form and minor setbacks since running cracking races behind Regal Power in feature three -year-old races.
The now six-year-old ran second in the Melvista Stakes (2200m) and filled the same placing again when a short-head behind in the WA Derby (2400m) a fortnight later.
After winning an 1800 handicap at Ascot in May, Cockney Crew resumes in the Amelia Park Handicap (1600m).
“I think I have got him back to the form he showed when he was a three-year-old,” McDonagh said.
“He’s absolutely flying at home.
“This race on Saturday will tell me where he is at.
“If he runs like I think he should then we can plan for the Ascot carnival.”
Cockney Crew carries 60.5kg with the claim of Kristy Bennett.
Drawn in barrier one, he is $5 and on the third line with Tabtouch.
Giant Leap and Nobel Laurence the $3 favourites.
Meanwhile McDonagh confirmed Lonsdale Lady had been retired to stud.
The daughter of Maschino won four races from 16 starts.
Her pinnacle victory came in the Listed Ascot 1000 Guineas (1800m).
