We spoke to jockeys competing in the Coca-Cola Avondale Cup to get their comments on how the race went.
1st: Glory Days Sam Collett
“When I was back there I was hoping I’d be able to get on Chance For Dance, but he was going nowhere so I had to get a wriggle on. She actually cruised round them and got there much easier than I thought she would. So, she had an excuse if she had come to the end of her run, and all credit to Chris and his horse for pushing us all the way to the line, but she was so determined, nothing was going to beat her.”
2nd: Blue Breeze Chris Dell
52kgs on his back, he was always going to be competitive with these lightweights. Bring on the Auckland Cup.
3rd: Five To Midnight Jonathan Riddell
Gave him a nice ride. Good effort.
4th: Roger That Trudy Thornton
Awesome run. With a little cut in the ground he's a better horse. Super effort.
5th: Jacksstar Chris Johnson
Hit a flat stop turning for home but ran on.
6th: Gundown Sam Spratt
He ran a really nice race. Hit the line strong and will be suited with further.
7th: Mongolian Marshal Matthew Cameron
Disappointing. We thought he may not stay and that race confirmed it. He'll be a nice miler next time.
8th: Final Suggestion Rosie Myers
Had to do the donkey work to bring the field up, may appreciate a little easing of the ground.
9th: The Good Fight Andrew Calder
The horse felt good but he didn't quicken up today.
10th: Nymph Monte Jasmine Fawcett
Did too much in the early stages, pulled hard. He'll be better suited settled further back in the field.
11th: Shared Secrets Lisa Allpress
Disappointing run.
12th: Dee And Gee Leah Hemi
She got a little lost going the opposite way so hopefully she'll improve from that.
13th: Andoyas Darren Danis
Just feeling the ground a little.
Last: Chance To Dance Opie Bosson
He dropped out, feeling the firmer track.