Bjorn Baker‘s Overpass claimed a deserved Group 1 victory when making a mess of his rivals in the Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes (1200m).
Having claimed The Quokka (1200m) earlier in the year, Overpass added another Ascot 1200m feature event to his name, this time with Group 1 status next to it.
Overpass hadn’t been seen since finishing 10th of 12 runners in The Everest (1200m) on October 14, but the Sydney-based sprinter showed no signs of ring rust when putting a space on his rivals.
Josh Parr‘s plan was clear to see from the outset, as the gun hoop settled his mount outside Savatoxl from the get-go.
Parr opted to go to the middle of the track when the field turned for home, Overpass obliged and sprinted quickly to put a winning margin on his rivals in the space of a couple of strides.
Three-year-olds Oscar’s Fortune and Ripcord filled the placings, but it was all honours the winner as Overpass justified his favouritism in grand style.
2023 Group 1 Winterbottom Stakes Replay – Overpass | T: Bjorn Baker | J: Joshua Parr
It was clear how highly Bjorn Baker holds Winterbottom Stakes success, reeling off some of the starts who claimed Group 1 glory in the race.
“It’s an amazing race,” Baker said.
“Four international superstars, Takeover Target, Miss Andretti, Ortenzia and Buffering, to win this race is pretty special.
“Josh Parr rode him like the best horse, and what a year he has had, he’s a big race rider.
“This horse deserves it, no doubt.”
The win handed Josh Parr his third feature success of the year, having partnered Overpass to victory in The Quokka, before steering Japan‘s Obamburumai to success in the Golden Eagle last month.
“He’s just kept raising the bar… I’m just thrilled for the horse and thrilled for the team,” said Parr who picked up his 9th Group 1 win on Saturday.
“I’m so proud of this horse, he’s deserved a Group 1 victory.
“Really pleased to come out and trust the horses ability.”
Post-race, it was confirmed by connections of Darby Racing that a deal had been done with RAM Racing to have Overpass return to Ascot in the autumn to defend his crown in The Quokka and set up a tantalising rematch with Amelia’s Jewel.