This was a very tough pill to swallow. We knew we blew this race. We got out ridden and walked away with that big knot twisting inside us.
Everything was set for a big race. Amber had worked beautifully. She was in top shape, coming off the tough La Trice. We had drawn perfectly. We instructed Roy to go forward in front of the favourite (Friar's Touch) and then take the race from there. If she jumped poorly, we would drop behind him and go earlier to put her in the race.
She jumped beautifully, and unfortunately roy then dropped her back behind Friar's Touch. Heading around the back she was still positioned perfectly to be able to win....then disaster struck.
Shaun O'Donnel on board Solar Impact took off early and locked Amber on his inside. This was exactly the same tactic we had employed the year before with Tapdog. We were crying coming around the bend. It was clear Amber was full of running but had no where to go. She got out late and came home strongly into 4th place just a length away.
We were bitterly disappointed. Enough said.
Results here
There was many moments of fun during the day though. I managed to meet up for the first time with Geoff Whittle who is a regular writer for the popular Perth Turf Talk. Geoff and I shared the day together, a few laughs, couple of beers and departed with warm spirits. Geoff also snapped a couple of pics and here is one with the family and the first jockey of Tapdog, Chris Usher. Chris ride the dog to his first Geraldton cup victory as a 4yo.
I also got to meet up with big Tim Gossage who hosts the Racing Radio program. Tim delighted the crowd through the day with his colourful commentary.
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