McDonald brings up 100th metro win for 2021/22

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James McDonald

Champion jockey James McDonald has notched up his 100th metropolitan win for the 2021/22 racing season, a milestone he has now reached in four consecutive years.

The Sydney-based jockey steered Chris Waller's filly to victory at Warwick Farm on Wednesday in the opening race, which was only fitting given the partnership McDonald and Waller have built of late.

Already this season, McDonald has won almost AU$35 million in for connections, partly thanks to his 10 Group 1 victories including aboard Verry Elleegant.

McDonald also won The Everest for the first time, partnering to victory in October, before winning the aboard the champion sprinter in November and then adding the Stakes in April at Randwick during The Championships.

“I've done it,” McDonald chuckled.

“That was a bit of a relief. Good to do it on Chris' horse who is obviously very smart.

“She just went about her business really well and scooted through that heavy ground most importantly.

“She let down terrific. She split it (headwind) really well so that was a good sign.”

In the past month, Longines has revealed that the 29-year-old hoop is a clear leader in the race for the World's Best Jockey title, 50 points ahead of .

McDonald has a terrific chance to add to his Group 1 for the season during the next fortnight.

He partners in Saturday's Queensland Oaks, while he will likely ride current all-in favourite should he gain a start in the J.J. Atkins next weekend at Eagle Farm.

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