Backmarker Dawn Dawn swept into Coolmore Classic contention with a near last to first win in the Group 2 $200,000 Guy Walter Proven Thoroughbred Stakes (1400m) at Randwick today.
Dawn Dawn, above in the yellow colours, scores a last stride win in the Gut Walter Stakes at Randwick. Photo by Steve Hart.
Dawn Dawn was giving the leader a huge start on the home turn but under the hard riding of Tommy Berry, the Team Hawkes trained mare came from second last on the home turn to claim the major prize in a three way photo.
Dawn Dawn ($13) got the judge’s decision by a nose over the front runner Sweet Deal ($2.50 favourite).
Third placegetter Pohutukawa ($5) was with Dawn Dawn at the tail of the field and made her run with winner to finish a nose behind the runner up.
Bookies at Ladbrokes.com.au had no choice but to shorten up Dawn Dawn from $34 to $10 for the Group 1 $600,000 Coolmore Classic (1500m) at Rosehill on March 14.
Dawn Dawn was having her third run back today and co-trainer Michael Hawkes said that the mare had no luck last start when fourth in the Group 3 $160,000 Robrick Lodge Triscay Stakes (1200m) at Randwick a fortnight ago.
“She had no luck last start and even first-up she was probably a good thing beaten when Tommy rode her,” Hawkes said.
“I said to Tommy today, he was a little worried about the barrier but I thought it was perfect for her.”
“She’ll get back and she’ll really hit the line if she can get a clear crack at them from the corner she will do the rest. She’s tough as, and I’m very proud of her. “
The Hawkes Team of John, Michael and Wayne also trained Sylvia’s Mother for the same owners to win the Group 3 Furphy Ale Frances Tressady Stakes (1400m) at Flemington today and both mares will line up in the Coolmore Classic.
“They’ve got two really good live chances (with Sylvia’s Mother) now heading towards the Coolmore,” Michael Hawkes said.
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