The lightly-raced but hugely talented Irish Constabulary claimed a career highlight at the Gold Coast on Saturday with a devastating win in the $250,000 Sky Thoroughbred Central Magic Millions Country Cup (1200m).
An ownership dispute early in the gelding’s career meant that the eight-year-old son of Flying Spur, a $85,000 purchase at the 2010 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, was lining up for only his 17th career start but showed backers the delay hasn’t hindered his galloping ability with a near two length win.
Co-trainer John Symons, who prepares the gelding from his Sunshine Coast base in partnership with Melbourne Cup-winning horsewoman Sheila Laxon, said he was confident the win could launch Irish Constabulary to greater success in 2017.
“I’m very proud of the horse and the staff and everyone that has worked hard for this result,” Symons said.
“We’ll have a think about what we do now but there’s the option to spell him and look at something better during the Winter.”
The win was also a career highlight for jockey Michael Hellyer who was riding the gelding for the fourth time.
Settling off a solid tempo at the rear of the field, Hellyer and Irish Constabulary spotted the leaders more than five lengths at the top of the straight.
But after being allowed to balance up and work to the middle of the track, Irish Constabulary responded to Hellyer’s urgings with a breathtaking turn of speed to claim the lead inside the final furlong and post a soft win.
Kris Lees-trained horses filed the minor placings with Magic Albert gelding Lomazzo in second and Starcraft gelding Upstart in third.
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