Trainer Lindsey Smith knew one thing for sure heading into the last race at Caulfield on Saturday—grit wasn’t going to be what beat Yellow Sam. The determined mare proved her tenacity once again, notching her first metropolitan success in the MRC Chairman’s Club Handicap (1440m), bringing her career tally to eight wins from 17 starts.

Second-up after claiming victory in the Golden Topaz (1200m) at Swan Hill, Yellow Sam showed class and courage. Ridden by regular partner Fred Kersley and jumping at $5, she settled midfield behind a strong pace and surged late to win by a half-neck over Lim’s Saltoro, with a short head back to favourite The Open in third.

Only half a length separated the top four runners, with Rheinberg just behind them in fourth. Smith praised Yellow Sam’s fighting qualities in a blanket finish.

“It’s easy to train fast horses,” Smith said.

“I’ve got a few slow ones at the moment. But she’s been a courageous horse from day dot.

“She’s a courageous horse and has a great will to win. As I’ve said many times, will maybe out does ability sometimes.”

Fred Kersley, who brought up his fourth Victorian metro win for the season, was full of admiration.

“She’s a pleasure to deal with,” Kersley said.

“She’s probably one of the gutsiest horses I’ve ever had the pleasure to deal with. Time and time again she’s come back as a filly, a mare and she’s held that form, so I take my hat off to Lindsey.”

While Yellow Sam’s victory was a highlight, the meeting also had a sombre moment. In Race 8, the Maddie Raymond-trained Rolls was humanely euthanised on track after sustaining severe injuries during the run. Jockey Harry Grace, who was riding the 2023 Warrnambool Cup winner, was dislodged in the straight.

“After a fall at Caulfield Harry Grace is off to for scans on a suspected wrist injury,” the Victorian Jockeys Association reported. Thankfully, Grace was conscious and mobile following the fall.

Race 8 was taken out by the Ciaron Maher-trained Sayedaty Sadaty.

If you’re keen to bet on Yellow Sam’s next start or any major Melbourne races like the Golden Topaz or Warrnambool Cup, check out our comprehensive guide to Australia’s best betting sites.

For top betting sites, apps, and trusted online bookmakers, visit our full list of Australian betting platforms.