Jameka laps up extra distance

JAMEKA has exacted Group 1 revenge on her last-start conqueror Humidor in emphatic style, spacing the Australian Cup winner by 6½ lengths in the BMW at Rosehill.

The winner of the Caulfield Cup last spring, the Ciaron Maher-trained Jameka was the equal favourite in the Australian Cup two weeks ago when Humidor collared her to win by a long neck.

The step-up from 2000m to 2400m yesterday was in Jameka’s favour, as was the pre-race certainty she would have Lasqueti Spirit to follow.

“It was a super effort today and what a ride by Hughie,” Maher said. “It was one of her target races and I’m just rapt to get it done.”

Three-year-old filly Lasqueti Spirit led by many lengths but found the going tough in the run home and weakened to finish fifth as the older horses came at her.

Exospheric, third in the Australian Cup (2000m), finished in the same position, 1¾ lengths behind Humidor.

Bowman was thrilled to win the race for Maher.

“I won the VRC Oaks for Ciaron a few years ago on Set Square and I’ve had a limited but very good association since,” he said.

“This mare was dominant in winning the Caulfield Cup. You had to see it to believe her run in the Australian Cup.

“She made my job easy. I just had to keep her happy, keep her in her rhythm.

“I had to have confidence in her ability and just wanted to stay close enough because if Lasqueti Spirit didn’t stop then I could reel her in but not use up too much petrol if the swoopers came.”

Jameka started the $3.10 favourite with support coming following the withdrawal of Ranvet Stakes winner Our Ivanhowe. Last year’s Australian Derby winner, Tavago, was also among the favoured runners at $4.40 but his future is uncertain after he pulled up lame.