He came and he conquered.
Australia’s latest sprint star Giga Kick has taken his winning roadshow to Brisbane, stamping his class on the Doomben 10,000 with a narrow but decisive victory.
While the margin was only a half-length over Overpass, Giga Kick always had the race in his keeping, jockey Craig Williams settling the chestnut midfield before chiming in down the outside to add a second Group 1 to the three-year-old’s All Aged Stakes victory.
For young trainer Clayton Douglas, the race was a relatively easy watch and he felt the $1.65 favourite could have dug deeper if required.
“He obviously had a little bit left in the tank and it was good to see him do what he did. He’s a phenomenal horse, isn’t he?” Douglas said.
“Four runs this prep, two Group One wins, just got beaten in a T J (Smith Stakes). Everyone has come out to see him and that’s what we wanted to see.”
Giga Kick has now won seven of his 10 starts and just shy of $9.6 million in prizemoney, the bulk of it courtesy of his Everest triumph in the spring.
Improved sprinter Overpass ($16) raced on the speed and was game in defeat with Mazu ($8.50) making ground along the rails to grab third, just ahead of Godolphin colt Aft Cabin ($5.50).
Giga Kick gave Williams his first Doomben 10,0000 and the decorated hoop said he was blessed to be involved with such a gifted horse.
“He’s such a good horse, I’m just so lucky to be a part of his journey,” Williams said.
Josh Parr was rapt with the effort of last start Quokka winner Overpass, who appears to have gone to a new level since being gelded.
“He continues to get better. A thrilling performance today beaten by obviously a standout sprinter but I look forward to the future,” Parr said.
Douglas confirmed Giga Kick would now spell in Queensland before returning to defend his Everest crown.
He is pencilled in to kick off his spring campaign in Melbourne with the Premiere Stakes (1200m) his likely Everest lead-up.
“His kick off point at this stage will be the McEwen Stakes at Moonee Valley and all going well he’ll be third-up in The Everest,” Douglas said.