Local sprinter Jigsaw produced a brilliant front-running display to capture the second edition of The Meteorite at Cranbourne.

The 1200m, $1 million slot race saw the Cindy Alderson-trained gelding take full advantage of the Moonee Valley Racing Club’s slot, controlling the event from the outset.

Jigsaw secured his place for Moonee Valley by winning the McEwen Stakes (1200m) on Cox Plate Day.

Guided by apprentice Logan Bates, Jigsaw ($6) held off Arkansaw Kid ($6.50) by three-quarters of a length, with Zou Sensation ($6.50) finishing 1¼ lengths away in third.

Alderson was joined on track by her father Colin, mother Lyn and her sister to share in the moment.

She said the win meant a great deal to both her family and her stable.

“I can’t really believe it to be honest, especially with everyone around me today,” Alderson said.

“My dad’s here, so is my mum, my sister and her children. It’s a real family affair.

“That’s how we got started in the game. Logan is like family to me, he’s been with me all along and all my staff are like family, so it’s a really proud moment.”

Jigsaw has rediscovered his best form this preparation, stringing together three consecutive wins.

Alderson credited a long spell for helping rejuvenate the gelding.

“He did have a lovely spell, and I think that got him back in really great shape,” Alderson said.

“He’s enjoying himself, he’s got his confidence right up and he and Logan are the new combination.”

Southside Racing will soon stage another major slot race — the $1 million Supernova (1400m) at Pakenham on December 13.

Alderson confirmed Jigsaw would not be aimed at the event, noting the 1400m has proven beyond him previously.

“We did try that once before. I think we’ll stay in our wheelhouse from now on,” she said.

Bates, who has been with the Alderson stable since starting his apprenticeship, has forged a strong connection with Jigsaw.

“He was made to work a bit early, but I still think we got it soft enough and we were able to ramp it up on the corner,” Bates said.

“He has an unbelievable gallop around the corner and that’s where he breaks them open.

“To the horses’ credit he kept digging and digging when they challenged and held them at bay.

“He pricked his ears coming back, so he was pretty happy.”

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