Kalgoorlie trainer and former jockey Rod Kirkup was thrilled to bits as his “stable star” Amelia Storm returned to scale following its barnstorming win in the Country Cup 1500m.
Sent out on the third line of betting ($6.00), the 7yo Stormy’s Son gelding was ridden back in the field by hoop William Pike, allowing Regal Miss ($12.00) to take up the charge early in proceedings. Long shot Kincora ($31.00) and the well specked Exclusive Glow ($6.00) trailed the early leader, whilst public elect My Fascination ($4.60 fav) took a trail three back with cover. Passing the 400 though, the early speed caught up with the front runners, allowing Pike to set his mount alight. Amelia Storm responded well from seventh on the turn to flood home by ¾ length from the fast finishing Zuboyne ($41.00), with Business Secret a further length away in third.
It was the first city win for Rod Kirkup as a trainer, and an overdue win for Amelia Storm following a spate of placing’s.
C.Blackwell