The incredible seven and a quarter length victory is the 16th straight win for Winx, the 20th of her career and her 11th at Group One level.
While her rivals floundered on the heavy 10 track, Winx was able to cruise along off the speed before coming with her usual surge around the turn.
Shortly after passing the 400 metre mark the champion mare hit the front and from that point the only interest was in the placings and the winning margin.
It was just the win connections were looking for leading into the $4 million Queen Elizabeth Stakes (2000m) in three weeks time.
“There was a lot of pressure to bring it,” an emotional Chris Waller said. “And it’s just great to see her win like that.”
“I didn’t expect her to win like that – she’s just an amazing horse.”
“His only instructions were to keep her safe and hold her together. Fortunately she races well like that.”
“It’s amazing to be associated with a horse that is so well received (by the public),” Waller added.
As the crowd roared and the connections of the champion were wiping away tears, a proud jockey Hugh Bowman was able to reflect on another outstanding performance.
“I feel she is in the prime of her career,” Bowman said. “It’s just so special to be a part of it.”
“She’s just an exceptional mare. She’s taken all before her and let’s hope we’ve got plenty of time left with her yet.”
“It’s just so special,” Bowman added.
Winx was bred by the Camilleri family of Fairway Thoroughbreds and sold through the draft of Coolmore Stud at the 2013 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale for $230,000.
She was purchased by Peter Tighe’s Magic Bloodstock and Tighe races her in partnership with Richard Treweeke and Debbie Kepitis.
Winner: Winx
Breeding: Street Cry-Vegas Showgirl (Al Akbar)
Race: ATC George Ryder Stakes G1 (1500m)
Sold for: $230,000
Sale: 2013 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale
Vendor: Coolmore Stud (As Agent)
Buyer: Magic Bloodstock
Earnings: $10,438,925
Owners: Magic Bloodstock Racing (Mgr: PG Tighe), RG Treweeke & Mrs DN Kepitis
Trainer: Chris Waller (Rosehill) |
