LADBROKES MANIKATO

STAKES (GROUP 1)

CONTROVERSY engulfed the start of the recent $1 million Manikato Stakes with the scratching at the barriers of Chautauqua and Voodoo Lad, reducing the field to nine as The Everest runner-up Vega Magic was sent out a clear favourite.

With the track playing in favour of those close to the fence, the Australian Guineas winner Hey Doc was first to find the rail.

Capatilising on his advantage, Luke Nolen rated the Duporth gelding to perfection to withstand the charge from behind and win a second Group 1 from his 18 starts for trainer Tony McEvoy.

The mare In Her Time was second with the Magnus gelding Malaguerra third.

The Everest exertions clearly caught up with Vega Magic who finished fifth.

GODOLPHIN AGAIN

Godolphin continued their love affair with country Cups on Wednesday winning the $300,000 Group 3 Bendigo Cup over 2,400 metres with Qewy, having won last year’s edition with Francis Of Assisi.

“For Qewy to come out and win like he did is great,” said foreman Chris Connett. “He stays all day and he ran right through the line.”

Days later it was announced Qewy would not run in the Melbourne Cup. “He knows he’s had a race, and I think the Cup will just come a bit soon for him,” said Charlie Appleby.