Kris Lees was content to take the win whenever it arrived and Tavi Time delivered the perfect Boxing Day present by capturing his second Group 3 Summer Cup, helping the stable complete a race-to-race double.
A model of consistency despite limited success this year, the six-year-old gelding broke through for his first win since May when he claimed last year’s Summer Cup, having last tasted victory in the Listed Scone Cup (2000m).
“It has been frustrating this preparation,” Lees said.
“He is more than capable on his day but he got the right pressure up front and Dylan (Gibbons) bided his time to get the runs when they appeared. Good win.
“He’s a backmarker and you’ll have bad luck which happens in big races.”
Carrying 56kg, Tavi Time ($4.80) proved too strong for Estadio Mestalla ($4.80), who shouldered 61kg and went down by 1¼ lengths after recording his third straight runner-up finish.
Those seconds followed strong performances in the The Gong (1600m) and The Ingham (1600m) in recent weeks.
Winning rider Dylan Gibbons said the gelding’s raw ability had always been evident.
“He’s got that electric turn-of-foot and I did say to Kris that he can be lethargic early,” Dylan Gibbons said.
“He shot through and put a lengths on them but then wanted to reverse park and come back three-lengths.
He’s a bit tricky but on his day he can be electric.”
Earlier on the program, Lees had already found the winner’s stall when Power Of The Brave ($3.30) landed the Star Turn @ Vinery Stud Handicap (1000m).
Early markets and future race betting for Tavi Time can be viewed via the Australian betting sites list.