The Challenge Stakes proved just that for Rain Affair but the sprinter was up to the task as he fought off Satin Shoes and Neeson to win the Group Two race at Rosehill.
Trainer Joe Pride was a relieved man, saying the four-year-old was a much better horse on softer ground and over further than 1100 metres, adding merit to Rain Affair’s win.
Rain Affair was too strong in today's Group 2 Challenge Stakes - Photo by Steve Hart
Winter King ($41) took Rain Affair on early until Corey Brown took control on the $1.85 favourite mid-race.
Rain Affair shifted out in the straight with Satin Shoes’ rider Blake Shinn viewing the film to determine whether he had been impeded.
He decided against a protest as did Michael Rodd on the third placegetter after considering whether to lodge an objection against Shinn with the margins a neck by a half-head.
The spoils went to Rain Affair who took his record to 11 wins from 13 starts with the Group One TJ Smith now in his sights.
“He is so much more effective on wet ground,” Pride said.
“He kept pulling out all the stops to win and that shows how good he is.
“The TJ is very much on the agenda. I have been quite soft on him to have him primed for that and hopefully the track has some give in it.
“The 1100 on a firm track is not really his go and it showed what courage he has.
“If he gets a wet track for the TJ, they won’t beat him.”
Pride said the pace set by Winter King who weakened to finish last had not helped Rain Affair’s cause.
“I think the early sectionals were unnecessary,” he said.
Rival trainer Clarry Conners said stakes-winning filly Satin Shoes’ Group One target would be the Galaxy (1100m) in three weeks.
“She tries so hard,” he said.
“No matter what they put in front of her she just keeps trying.
“She is such an honest filly and I thought she’d run great today and she did.
“The Galaxy is where she will most likely go.”
Rain Affair’s only Group One attempt so far resulted in a 2-1/2 lengths sixth to Hay List in the Newmarket Handicap.
Bel Sprinter missed the Newmarket due to a minor injury and the Melbourne visitor ran home for fourth in the Challenge after missing the start.
