Arguably the win of the day came “finally” for the unpredictable 6yo Show A Heart gelding Big Attitude ($3.90), in what was a stunning finish to the days racing at Belmont.
With nearly all previous winners for the day coming from a handy or better position in running, it was left for Big Attitude and jockey Daniel Staeck to defy the odds to salute in the PR 2012/13 Members HCP 1600m.
Settling well back in the field, and lumping the grandstand (60kg), Big Attitude left the early running to Bentonian ($13.00) and Voluminous ($7.50) who set an electric pace as they pushed forward quickly upon release. Race favourite Rebelson ($3.60 fav) sat behind the early leaders, and looked the goods in transit upon securing the box seat. Big Attitude found itself eighth and three wide coming into the straight, and although charging stoutly, seemed as if it had left its run late yet again. Voluminous and Rebelson set sail for home and put a couple of lengths on the field inside the final furlong, but from nowhere came Big Attitude, gobbling up the ground late to nab Voluminous by a short head in the final stride of the race.
Rebelson peaked on its run to finish a further ½ length away in third.
The win hopefully marks the end of a frustrating preparation for Big Attitude and trainer Adam Durrant, having been the beaten favourite in all three runs prior to today.
Chris Blackwell