New Zealand import Trosettee collected a long-overdue first Australian victory with a come-from-behind win at Moonee Valley.
The Jimmy Choux gelding was a five-time winner from 12 starts in New Zealand for his Opaki owner-trainer Grant Nicholson. The most recent of those victories was the Egmont Cup (2100m) at Hawera in October of 2021.
Nicholson then sent him to Victoria to join the stable of Patrick Payne. Although he went winless in his first 11 races on that side of the Tasman, he collected two seconds, two thirds, three fourths and a fifth.
Saturday was finally his day, producing an irresistible finish from fifth-last in the hands of jockey Billy Egan.
“It’s very pleasing,” Egan said. “He’s been such a consistent horse since coming across and joining the stable, so I’m really happy.
“It played out as an absolutely perfect scenario for him today. I just made sure I was able to get out, creep up and stay within striking distance, and he’s won very well.
“Wherever you take him, he’s always knocking on the door. This was the right race for him and it was his day.”
Trosettee’s 24-start career has produced six wins, five placings and $224,698.
“I thought he saddled up really well here today and looked great,” Payne’s sister Michelle said. “It was a really good ride by Billy Egan and it’s great to see him get home.
“The owners have been really patient. Obviously he hasn’t won for a while, but it’s good for him to get the win today.”
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