Sydney sprinter Snitzerland has claimed a breakthrough Group One success in the $500,000 Lightning Stakes at Flemington.
And with three-time Lightning winner Black Caviar’s name attached to the race, it turned out to be a fitting result for prominent owner Neil Werrett.
Werrett is the managing shareholder of the now-retired Black Caviar but Snitzerland races in his own colours under the guidance of Rosehill trainer Gerald Ryan.
“It’s a thrill to win today’s race, I can tell you that,” Werrett said.
Snitzerland ($5) jumped with the leaders and fought off a challenge from Shamexpress ($7) to win the famous straight-six sprint.
The $3.10 favourite Samaready ran on late in the race to finish third after being hard-ridden in the middle stages.
As far as jockey Brenton Avdulla was concerned, the result was never in doubt.
“As soon as she left the barrier I knew she was right on song,” he said.