Manaal (+1800) has taken out the Group 3 Gimcrack Stakes after showing an explosive finish at the end of 1000m at Randwick under the urgings of returning jockey Tommy Berry.
The Michael Freedman-trained two-year-old filly settled just behind the speed after jumping well from barrier three, and as the field rounded the home turn, Berry was able to get her into clear air to let down in the final 300m.
Joining in down the outside was another roughie, Repose (+2200) who looked to have taken the lead with 200m to go, but ultimately threw the race away by ducking out on Ryan Maloney in the final 50m of the race.
The unlucky runner of the race was the runner-up Celestial Bling (+500) from the Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott stable, who was held up on the fence behind the slowing leaders before bursting through a gap to finish off strong and fight out the finish.
2023 Group 3 Gimcrack Stakes Replay – Manaal | T: Michael Freedman | J: Tommy Berry
Micheal Freedman was thrilled to take out the first big two-year-old race of the season and he spoke post-race.
“It's a big thrill all round. Emirates have been very good to me this year, giving me a couple of these Tassorts (stallion),” Freedman said.
“It's terrific to get a result like that and for Tommy (Berry) because we've got a long association.
“He's been doing it hard the last six to eight months and I'm sure he'll be thrilled.
“I think there's better to come.
“I said to the owners before the race ‘Whatever she does today it will be great but I can't wait to see her in the autumn.'
“She'll have a nice little break now and we might be there in the autumn.”
Tommy Berry returned from an eight-month suspension during the week, and he has already found the winners circle on a big Saturday race day at Randwick.
“I promised I wouldn't get emotional and then these guys come along (hugs children),” Berry said.
“It's been a long road ahead, I learnt so much about myself while I was off.
“There are so many people that I thank. My comeback, my family, my friends, my manager Paul Joice for sticking with me. I gave him hell these last six months. Dad at home, I love you mate.
“She bounced really well, and I actually sent Michael Freedman (trainer) a message last night and said, ‘Is she alright?'
“Gee, Michael has a good team this year, I can't wait.”