Explosive Derby effort
Maher and Eustace celebrate as Allen pilots rising star to SA triumph
EXPLOSIVE by name and result was the apt way to describe the jaw-dropping win of rising star Explosive Jack ($4 favourite) in the Group 1 SA Derby at Morphettville.
Steered with unbelievable calm from jockey John Allen – who brought up his fourth SA derby in the past six years and his 12th Group 1 overall – Explosive Jack had no luck, sitting three wide for most of the trip.
But Allen didn’t worry with his lack of early fortune to gather in the early leaders and shoot clear on straightening.
The victory was Explosive Jack’s third after winning the
Australian Derby in April this year and Tasmanian Derby in February.
The winner was trained by the powerful combo of Ciaron Maher and David Eustace, who also prepared the second horse Let’s Karaka Deel.
Maher said the winner’s fitness was a key.
“I was probably a bit nervous early but he was in a really good rhythm,’’ Maher said.
“I thought he was in a similar position as the AJC Derby. John said that every time he sits on him he gets better. It was a super job by the team. We will see about the Queensland Derby and will let the dust settle. Let’s Karka Deel was great, he will go to the Derby in Queensland (May 29).’’
Allen, who has enjoyed outstanding success in Australia since relocating from Ireland, whether it be at the provincials, over jumps or at the top level, wasn’t about to hit the panic button after his early position.
“He is a momentum horse. I was happy to have three wide with cover. He was always travelling well,’’ Allen said.
“It was a bit messy a little bit down the back but I was happy to be in striking position and he just took me into the race. He is a very nice type.’’
Promising filly Biscayne Bay ($4.20 equal fav) gave cotrainers Ben Hayes and Tom Dabernig plenty to smile about with a barnstorming inside run to take out the Group 3 Sires’ Produce Stakes on the Parks track.
Facing a Soft 5 Parks downgrade, the daughter of Sebring/ Fratianne was further back than planned but under the urgings of champion jockey Damien Oliver got the right run to win well from roughy Blushing Tycoon ($41) and Cloudy ($6).
A beaming Hayes was thrilled.
“It was fantastic to get a winner back here (SA). Our family has a long history at this carnival,’’ Hayes said. “I think she is a really exciting horse.”