European staying dominance continues with Sandown Cup win
THE European staying dominance continued at Sandown on Saturday with Qewy winning the Listed Sandown Cup over 3200m.
The Charlie Appleby-trained gelding arrived in Australia with its eyes set on the Melbourne Cup, but instead it goes home with the Geelong Cup and Saturday’s $150,000 Sandown Cup.
The seven-year-old was planted on the speed by jockey Kerrin McEvoy and although a challenge came from Swacadelic in the straight, Qewy never looked under pressure and scored for favourite punters at $1.80 with CrownBet.com.au.
“I was pretty happy. He’s come off a good fourth in the Melbourne Cup, I was a little worried to back up again over the two miles, but we were able to just get our own way,” McEvoy said.
“He’s got a lovely mind, lovely attitude this horse. Nice big stride, he was nice and bright.”
McEvoy has had a great association with the European imports this spring carnival and he enjoys riding the tough, seasoned types.
“Full credit to the horse, he kept picking up. His hearts really in the right place and as a jockey you love these horses because they try so hard for you.”
Godolphin was represented by James Ferguson who along with primary trainer Charlie Appleby have had a successful excursion to Australia.
“It’s been so much fun. The horses have all run well well,” Ferguson said.
“For him (Qewy) to go win this to top it all off, it makes the trip worthwhile.
“He put in a great performance, given a great ride by Kerrin. He definitely had a hard race in the Melbourne Cup and he’s pulled out all the stops today. I’m absolutely delighted.”
Ferguson has been surprised by the support for the Godolphin runners in Australia, especially for Qewy which wasn’t considered a top Cups hope by the locals.
“The support from the whole racing community has been huge. He’s become a bit of a favourite, everyone’s asking about him which is great,” Ferguson said.
“We knew he could stay, it’s just a great thrill for everyone to come here on the last day and win like that is great.”
Swacadelic produced a season-best performance to finish second and it loomed as a potential winner in the straight.
All I Survey ($37) ran on well for third with the disappointment in the race coming from De Little Engine ($4.90) which continues to be the bookmakers best friend.