The Group 1 Newmarket Handicap saw a boil over at Flemington on Saturday afternoon with Kiwi galloper Roch ‘N’ Horse prevailing in emotional scenes.
The Mike Moroney-trained mare was sent out at massive odds in the famous sprint race, jumping at $126 and given little chance by many.
The field split up the Flemington straight, Patrick Moloney aboard Roch ‘N’ Horse and five others choosing to stick to the rail while the majority of the field - including the big guns in betting - went to the grandstand side.
However, entering the course proper, it was clear the underdogs on the far side were getting the upper hand, and in the end, four of the first five past the post stuck to the rail in running.
The placings were filled by fellow rough chances The Astrologist in second, while last year’s favourite in the race, September Run, ran third.
"I don't think she's ever seen me cry."
— Racing.com (@Racing) March 12, 2022
Patrick Moloney just won his first G1 race with Roch 'n' Horse in the Newmarket Handicap 😢
@stowaustralia pic.twitter.com/zhjHvlBNC4
Moloney was very emotional in the aftermath of his first Group 1 win, while trainer Moroney was also grateful for his decision to bring the mare across the ditch.
"I thought the NZ sprinters were up to it..."
— Racing.com (@Racing) March 12, 2022
Mike Moroney is a VERY smart man with Roch 'n' Horse winning the Newmarket Handicap. pic.twitter.com/DZJkgWXLvL
40 minutes later saw the running of the Group 1 Australian Cup (2000m), where New South Wales raider Duais ran over the top of his rivals in a gruelling content
Josh Parr had Duais parked towards the back, and after a strongly run race, powered down the middle of the track and saluted in dominant fashion by over a length.
Race favourite Think It Over ran second after picking back up late, while Spanish Mission faded from the lead to run third.
"Won it easily."
— Racing.com (@Racing) March 12, 2022
Duais wins the 160th Australian Cup! pic.twitter.com/QduhczodZT
The Coolmore Classic (1500m) was also run at Rosehill on Saturday, with the Ciaron Maher and David Eustace-trained Lighthouse prevailing to win.
The American import is still in her first preparation since arriving in Australia and claimed her first Group 1 with the victory in the Coolmore.
After sitting midfield, she was too strong late to win by over a length. Mirra Vision under Sam Clipperton stayed on well for second, while Hinged ran third for trainer Chris Waller.