Sir Sway secures Manihi Classic victory, eyes The Goodwood

The four-year-old gelding showed his customary early speed before digging deep in the straight to hold off the fast-finishing bookmaker favourite Prairie Flower ($2.90), with Extremely Lucky () flashing home for third.

Sir Sway’s victory was all the more impressive given he was first-up without an official trial or jumpout, showing his natural fitness and raw ability to prevail in a tight finish.

Prairie Flower came from midfield along the rail but couldn’t quite get past the winner, while Extremely Lucky stormed home late after being near the tail early.

Taunting () battled on bravely for fourth, while The Great Baby () was also competitive in fifth.

2025 Morphettville Mahini Classic Replay – Sir Sway

Co-trainer Jason Jaensch praised the gelding’s toughness, highlighting his ability to handle any challenge thrown at him.

“He came up quicker than we thought, but we gave him a solid track gallop at Naracoorte on Cup Day, and that had him right,” Jaensch said.

“He’s a quirky horse, but once he’s settled, he knows his job, and Taylor gave him the perfect ride today.”

Sir Sway’s victory also opens the door to bigger targets, with Jaensch confirming The Goodwood (1200m) at Morphettville in May as the ultimate goal.

“We’ve mapped out a plan, and if he keeps progressing, the Goodwood is the dream target,” he said.

“He’s earned his chance at that level.”

Johnstone was thrilled post-race, describing the victory as one of the most rewarding moments of her career.

“He’s a super little horse. He does it all himself,” Johnstone said.

“We were drawn wide, but we were able to get cover behind Taunting, and that was the key. I knew he’d fight them off in the straight—he’s as tough as they come.”

Sir Sway has now won eight of his 14 career starts, continuing to build an outstanding record as a progressive South Australian sprinter.

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