Unfortunately for trainer Mitchell Pateman Wednesday was a down day when his talented three-year-old Almighty Class had to be withdrawn from the Placid Ark Stakes (1200m) because of a virus.
The Playing God gelding will live to fight another day, but a crushing blow nevertheless for Pateman who had grand ideas his stable pin up could be a major player in big races at Ascot’s Pinnacles Carnival.
But is a surprising turn, Mojo Rhythm gave Pateman much needed consolation and ended a frustrating week on a high after scoring the first black-type victory of his career in the R.J.Peters Stakes (1500m).
Sent out a $17 chance, Mojo Rhythm, with Holly Watson aboard, circled the field from second last and crossed the line half-a-length clear of unlucky favourite, Alsephina with Lets Galahvant a neck away in third position.
Pateman admitted it had been a bittersweet week for his stable.
“It’s been shocking to be honest,” Pateman said.
“But that puts a bit of light at the end of the tunnel.
“Last week they worked well together (Almighty Class-Mojo Rhythm) and there was nothing between them.
“It gave me a lot of confidence bringing him here and I always knew his ability was somewhere near this.
“His wins have been dynamite and I thought third up, down to 54kg and 1500m was going to be perfect for him.”
Mojo Rhythm’s best win in 20 starts gains him direct passage into next Saturday’s $1.5 million Group 1 Railway Stakes (1600m).
Pateman says he has no hesitation in backing up Mojo Rhythm and taking on elite company.
“He’ll be there,” Pateman said.
“You don’t get into a Railway and knock it back.
“Obviously he’s going to have to make another huge jump, but he’ll be there if things go his way.”
Alsephina was held up until the final 200m before attacking the line for another second after the Asian Beau Stakes two weeks back.
