Sunshine In Paris has triumphed in the Darley Champions Sprint, overcoming a highly competitive field, and providing jockey James McDonald with his ninth victory of the week.
In what was one of the most impressive races of the carnival, the horse trained by Annabel Neasham surged down the Flemington straight to claim a share of the $3 million prize purse.
After the race, McDonald confessed he had feared his chance for victory had slipped away, only to rally the mare in the final moments.
Sunshine In Paris crossed the finish line first in the Champions Sprint. Robert Cianflone/Getty Images
“I’m absolutely ecstatic for Annabel and John, the owners. She’s an exquisite mare. Wow, she provided me with an exceptional ride,” he stated on Nine.
“At the 300, I chose not to push forward. I was really kicking myself, thinking ‘You silly bugger’.
“I’ve barely scratched the surface, mate.”
Catch the 2024 TAB Champions Stakes Day LIVE on Nine and 9Now.
Right To Party took second place, while this year’s Everest champion Bella Nipotina rounded out the podium in third by a narrow margin.
Highly fancied runners Overpass and Giga Kick did not feature in the top positions, with Stretan Angel finishing fourth, just half a length behind the victor.
McDonald is set to ride in more Group 1 races on Saturday afternoon, including his mount on Cox Plate winner Via Sistina in the main event.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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