Crowds flocked to Werribee Racing Club on Sunday for the running of the Werribee Cup. In the big race it was Apprehend, right, ridden by Craig Newitt, which proved too good for rivals crossing the line first to salute for happy connections and punters paying $5.70. Below: Apprehend extended its lead 200m out from home before crossing the line. 76345 Pictures: KRISTIAN SCOTT
By Liam Twomey
APPREHEND reigned supreme in Sunday’s Living Legends Werribee Cup after a flawless ride from jockey Craig Newitt.
Starting as second favourite behind Persian Star, the Tony Vasil-trained horse was first out of the gate, putting an early gap on the field.
Newitt continued to race his mount to perfection and at the 600m mark, he made the move that would ultimately win him the race, putting three lengths on his rivals within a matter of seconds.
As the field rounded the final corner the lead only grew further as the red and black colours of Apprehend crossed the line first to claim the $140,000 race.
Hanks, ridden by Luke Nolan, ran on hard to claim second while Hiphopopotamus held on for a gallant third. Persian Star finished towards the rear of the field.
The victory over 2600m had a group of 20 happy owners jumping for joy as they entered the winner’s circle and embraced Newitt before the formal trophy presentation took place.
Part-owner Glenn Tyler was rapt that his horse was able to produce its best on the big stage.
“It’s a great feeling. Certainly the biggest thrill I’ve had in racing.
“To be out in front with such an easy pace during the race we were confident of coming home well,” he said.
“The pace was fairly kind and we knew that he was fit having carried higher weights in previous starts.
“This time he was down in the weights, got the right barrier, and it couldn’t have been any better.”
With excitement still in the air, plans are already under way for the horse’s next target with a possible interstate trip on the horizon.
“He is as tough as they come and we are just hoping that we might be going to the Adelaide Cup or something like that in six week’s time,” Tyler said.
“We will leave that to Tony but the Mornington Cup isn’t too far away either and Tony has always said he was keen to get him over the two miles.”
