James McDonald showcased his exceptional talent with a stunning victory aboard Pisces in the Blue Sapphire Stakes, reinforcing his status in horse racing as Godolphin celebrated a stellar day of success at Caulfield.
James McDonald reinforced his reputation as one of the top jockeys in the sport with a decisive victory on Pisces in the Blue Sapphire Stakes at Caulfield. Following an exhilarating performance on Champions Day, McDonald scored his fifth win out of six rides in Melbourne, demonstrating the skill and precision that solidify his place as a leading figure in horse racing. Pisces, a lightly raced three-year-old, showcased an impressive turn of speed, effortlessly racing ahead of the competition in the straight to secure a 2½-length win over Rue De Royale. Meanwhile, the favorite, Coleman, mired in a contentious ownership dispute, faded to finish second last after managing to lead into the straight. Despite this, McDonald appeared unbeatable aboard Pisces.
“He’s a developing horse on a positive path,” McDonald stated after the race. “His performance at Moonee Valley was outstanding despite some misfortune. It felt more like a barrier trial since he only found clear air in the last 100 meters. Today, he had an advantageous draw and demonstrated his true potential.” Trainer James Cummings of Godolphin supported McDonald’s remarks, commending both the jockey’s execution and the colt’s promise. “James rode him perfectly from the inside gate. He cruised past the competition like a horse with great potential,” Cummings said.
With a record of three victories and five placings from ten races, Pisces is set for ambitious goals this autumn, showcasing his potential as one of the stable's promising talents. Meanwhile, five-year-old Kin achieved a significant milestone by securing her first stakes victory in the Listed Village Stakes. Ridden expertly by Jamie Kah, the Godolphin mare claimed a narrow neck win over Pharari, with Miraval Rose completing the placings. Trainer James Cummings from Godolphin expressed his pleasure at Kin's achievement, remarking, “Reaching stakes status greatly enhances her career, especially in terms of her future as a broodmare. Our decision to race her under challenging weight conditions has proved very rewarding.”
The win highlights Godolphin's exceptional day at Caulfield, with Kin contributing to a consecutive victory following Pisces' success in the Group 3 race. In a bittersweet turn of events, Ruakaka Raider achieved back-to-back wins in the Vale Colin McKenna Handicap while trainer Cindy Alderson is recovering from a back injury. The gelding, making his debut in city grade, narrowly defeated the favorite Hiyaam Proud by a nose with jockey Daniel Stackhouse aboard. Alderson's representative, Melissa Batterham, commended the win, describing it as a significant morale boost for the stable. "This horse is still developing, but he has a promising future ahead,"
Stackhouse added that Regal Vow continued her impressive second-up record by clinching a Benchmark 84 victory under trainer Charlotte Littlefield. The atmosphere was filled with optimism in the stable after track rider Amanda indicated that the mare was in excellent form earlier in the week. "She performs best with some moisture in the ground, and the conditions today were ideal," Littlefield remarked. With Little Jack and Sassy Boom finishing in the placings, Regal Vow's victory rounded off a thrilling day of racing at Caulfield.
