Group One Oaks looms
The Group One $1 million Australasian Oaks looms large for the brilliant Coco Sun following her authoritative win at Bendigo on Saturday, April 13.
The Oaks, to be run over 2000 metres at Morphettville on Saturday, April 27, has been the target for Coco Sun this preparation, and the brilliance of her victory at Bendigo was a statement she is ready for the chance.
Brilliantly ridden by apprentice Jaylah Kennedy, the Tony & Calvin McEvoy-trained filly beat the older horses in the IMMIX, Metal Recycled Right Benchmark 70 Handicap (1600m).
Well backed from $6 into $4.80, Coco Sun raced away over the final stages to win by three lengths from New York Hurricane ($9) with Let’sbefrankbaby ($13), a length away third.
Coming from barrier 11, the 3kg claiming Kennedy had Coco Sun away nicely and was able to settle her midfield, wide with a trail on settling down.
She moved forward approaching the home turn, joined the leaders on straightening, then dashed away to win easily and make it two wins from two runs this preparation.
The McEvoys had also accepted in Adelaide with Coco Sun, but trainer Calvin McEvoy said the preference had been to stay in Victoria.
“We had her in at Morphettville, but she drew poorly,” McEvoy said.
“But we were keen to go across to Adelaide just once rather than having a couple of trips over.
“We found this race and being a filly and getting a claim against the older horses, and with Jaylah (Kennedy) who knows her well, she was in really well.
“What a beautiful ride by Jaylah.
“She gave her every opportunity and the filly relaxed really well.
“A shot out to Terry Jarvis who owns the filly, and she looks ready to tackle the Group One in Adelaide.”
Winning jockey Jaylah Kennedy explained her tactics for the win.
“Patience,” Kennedy said, “I didn’t want to be pushing or pulling.
“She took a while to find her feet and establish our position in running.
“When I did, she switched off and did everything right.
“I hit the front much too soon, but she was way too good.
“She has definitely improved from her first up win at Sandown, she was a lot more relaxed.
“There is no doubt she will go on to bigger and better things, and I’m just pleased to have been a part of it.”