Pinstriped secures Cox Plate spot in Feehan Stakes triumph
Pinstriped (+650) has earnt himself a free ticket to the Group 1 Cox Plate on October 28 after an outstanding win in Saturday’s Group 2 Feehan Stakes at Moonee Valley.
The Enver Jusufovic-trained galloper powered through the line under a terrific steer by Ben Allen, making it a double on the day after steering Place Of Gold to victory earlier in the afternoon.
Pinstriped was able to hold off some key challengers late as both Attrition (+650) and Tuvalu (+400) both attempted a late charge; however, it was to no avail as Pinstriped pinched a break with 150m to travel.
2023 Group 2 Feehan Stakes – Pinstriped | J: Ben Allen | T: Enver Jusufovic
Jusufovic spoke about this fairytale moment on course and couldn’t contain his excitement.
“I feel like I’m on that Willy Wonka chocolate factory movie,” exclaimed Jusufovic.
“This horse have always had the ability, I just had to manage him properly. It all sort of came to fruition in the Golden Eagle. To run last there, but when he came back he was a trainwreck.
“Last prep it took a few runs to get him fit with different processes in place – and he just came back super.
“He’s just a horse with plenty of talent.”
Ben Allen was bullish about his mounts victory and wants to stay on board moving into what will now be his grand final day on October 28.
“I just clicked with him (Pinstriped),” said Allen.
“The horse has matured as well.
“He’s still very raw, I just got on at the right time and I’ve been able to keep the seat.
“Couldn’t have scripted that any better.
“Just perfect.
“I think he started this prep with no grand finals in mind, just take it as it goes and pick the right race, but they’ve got a free ticket into the Cox Plate, and I guess he’s got a grand final now.