One could not start to imagine the strained emotion surging through master trainer Jim Taylor today.
High expectation surrounded Taylor’s undefeated star Barakey, as it lined up for its maiden eastern states run in the Group 1 Newmarket HCP 1200m at Flemington. Going for win number 12 from as many starts, the Key Business 5yo commenced well, before succumbing to the relentless pressure and faded to finish near last – a surprise result requiring many a question to be answered.
Back at Ascot, Taylor’s luck was about to change for the better.
This year’s listed Supremacy Stakes 2YO 1100m showcased a classic battle of the sexes, with a nail-biting half head margin deciding the eventual outcome.
The Taylor trained Snitzel colt Petrol Power ($1.70 fav) started the public elect, and commenced well for jockey Pat Carbery from barrier five as it charged to the lead early as expected. Second favourite Busimiss ($5.50) sat just off the leader – the pair separating themselves from the rest of the pack swinging the final bend. And off they went – a battle royale ensued for the length of the straight with neither mount prepared to concede defeat. But there would be only one winner to this race, with Petrol Power pulling out all stops to hold off Busimiss in the final stride. It was “day-light” to third, with Danny Rip ($8.00) a further five lengths astern.
A win for the boys, and a win for the grieving Jim Taylor – satisfactory justice? – probably not.
Chris Blackwell