In a surprising turn of events at Hastings, New Zealand on Saturday, trainer Roger James expressed his initial resignation to defeat as he watched jockey Warren Kennedy leg up aboard Apostrophe.
However, the outcome proved to be quite the opposite, as Apostrophe secured a thrilling victory at the winner's stall.
James had harbored concerns heading into the race due to Apostrophe drawing the outside gate in the 12-horse field and carrying a hefty 60 kilograms.
Nevertheless, the mare, ridden by Kennedy, settled at the rear of the field, facing a daunting wall of horses as they turned for home.
Kennedy's strategic move was to stick to the inside, ultimately finding a gap between horses that allowed Apostrophe to accelerate through and clinch victory by a narrow margin over Electric Time.
James couldn't contain his admiration for both his mare and the riding prowess of Warren Kennedy, stating, “It was a great effort first-up. Originally, we were going to claim four off her back, and then the rider got hurt, and we had the option of putting Warren on with 60 kilos.
“When I legged him up I said, ‘unfortunately I don't think she can win.' He steered her beautifully, saved ground, and all credit to the mare, it was a top effort.”
Kennedy, too, was left in awe of Apostrophe's performance, remarking, “It was a really fantastic win from her. Carrying 60 and drawn the widest, we got back, and she was sitting last.
“She just motored on through them, I couldn't get the gaps quickly enough, she was running on so quickly. It was a really good win, that was outstanding.”
Apostrophe has now accumulated five wins and three placements in her 13 starts, and the prospect of black-type races awaits this talented daughter of Tavistock.
James expressed his belief in her potential, saying, “We have always thought that she was a black-type performer in the making. She has had a few niggles soundness-wise, but if we can keep her in one piece, I think we can have a lot of fun.”