The Tony & Calvin McEvoy-trained three-year-old Veight (+700) has made the worthwhile trip to Sydney, claiming his maiden Group 1 success in the George Ryder Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill on Saturday.
The son of Grunt put the writing on the wall in his most recent performance, only finding one better in the form of Southport Tycoon in the Group 1 Australian Guineas (1600m) at Flemington on March 2.
Third-up into the campaign the colt appeared set to peak, and thanks to a perfectly timed steer by Victorian hoop Damien Lane, Veight was able to fend off a wall of challengers late in the piece.
Lane was able to sit in the ideal stalking position from stall eight on Saturday, and courtesy of a solid tempo from Cepheus (+15000), it was always going to set up for a couple of back markers to make a late challenge.
Think About It (+380) was a drifting favourite with online bookmakers prior to the jump and was unable to gain any cover when ridden forward to find a position.
Unfortunately, it left the Everest winner out on a limb for the duration, with the Joe Pride-trained galloper knocking up in the concluding stages.
Veight hit the front a long way out, while Lady Laguna (+700), Militarize (+300) and Golden Mile (+4000) mounted a late challenge, but it was to no avail, as Veight picked up a much-deserved Group 1 success.
Co-trainer Tony McEvoy was on course to represent the stable and was elated for the team to gain Group 1 success with Veight.
“What a star,” said McEvoy.
“His racing style helps a lot. He begins well and Damian (Lane) has got so much confidence in him.
“He put him into the race and then he comes back and relaxes. He counted to 10, and it was so deserved.
“I'm so proud of the horse. And all my team, fabulous.
“For Wayne Mitchell, who's been my biggest supporter, he owns most of this horse and I'm so pleased to win one of these for him.
“I think there's a $10 million one (1500m race) here in the spring.” (Golden Eagle).
Veight made history along with the likes of Pierro & Weekend Hustler on Saturday to salute as a three-year-old, and Damien Lane praised his mount for an incredible performance against the older horses.
“He's never put in a poor performance in his career,” said Lane.
“He's just a tough, honest horse. He jumps well, he gives himself the best chance and he's just so genuine. When you really ask him to dig deep he does.
“I was a little bit apprehensive taking on this race, so credit must go to Toy and Calvin for having the kahunas to have a go.
“That's why they've trained the amount of winners they have.
“He gets the all-important Group 1, he's a colt, so he secures his future as a stallion and he's just a great horse to be involved with.”