Champion trainer Chris Waller and star jockey James McDonald combined once again to claim another victory in the Wyong Cup on Friday, cementing their reputation as Australia’s leading feature-race duo.
Saltcoats provided McDonald with his fourth Wyong Cup triumph, all of which have come in Waller’s colours, while the Hall of Fame trainer celebrated his ninth success in the $250,000 Listed event.
The son of Ardrossan was looking to rebound after an impressive win in the Premier’s Cup Prelude (2000m) at Randwick on August 13, followed by a disappointing showing as a short-priced favourite in the Group 3 Premier’s Cup (2000m). On Friday, Saltcoats bounced back in style, settling perfectly on the fence before McDonald guided him into the clear to edge out Salt Lake City ($15) by a long head, with Glory Daze ($5.50) finishing a close third.
“He did everything perfectly, he popped away nicely, relaxed like a dream and that enabled him to get the trip,” McDonald said. “That (2100m) is probably as far as he wants but he did a good job today.”
The victory marked Saltcoats’ fifth career win from 18 starts, taking his prizemoney earnings to $586,290.
Wyong’s feature day also included the $250,000 Group 3 Mona Lisa Stakes, where McDonald finished third aboard Snow In May. The race was taken out by the Michael Freedman-trained Just Feelin’ Lucky ($4.40 fav), with Tommy Berry lifting her to a narrow win over roughie Overriding ($41).
Punters looking to follow Saltcoats and other spring contenders can find early odds and markets through Australia’s leading betting sites.