It was a day to remember at Flemington for the Payne family, with trainers Patrick and Michelle Payne celebrating four winners and their nephew, apprentice jockey Tom Prebble, notching his maiden riding treble.
Headlining the afternoon was Jimmy The Bear, who produced a strong performance to take out The David Bourke (1620m), securing a place in the VRC-CRV Winter Championship Series Final (1600m) set for July 5 at Flemington.
“I have to thank Patrick and Michelle for allowing me to stick with him,” Prebble said.
“He tried his best and put his best foot forward today and he was terrific.
“It’s my first treble and to get it at Flemington is excellent.”
Prebble’s treble unfolded quickly, beginning with Bold Soul in the Bruce Gadsden Handicap (2540m), trained by the Paynes, before guiding Splash Back to victory in the Brian Beattie Handicap (1400m) for Grahame Begg.
The Payne training team was also in the winners’ circle earlier in the day, scoring with Buccleuch in the TAB We’re On and Stop The Rock in the Ken Cox Handicap, both ridden by experienced jockey Billy Egan.
Despite enjoying notable success throughout their careers, Saturday’s haul marked a personal best in terms of wins on a single card for Patrick and Michelle Payne.
“I had three wins and a very close second one day at Bendigo in the legs of the quaddie, but this is the best I’ve had and it’s great for the team,” Michelle Payne said.
“Patrick works so hard with everyone at home and it’s a huge effort.
“Jimmy is a stable favourite and it’s great to do it with him. He’s such a lovely horse and he gives himself every chance.”
“It was a beautiful ride by Tom. He didn’t panic. He had to guide him through a tight run and the horse just did the rest. It was beautiful to watch.”
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