Chris Waller & Joao Moreira have combined with Lindermann ($4.20) to claim the Group 3 Craven Plate (1800m) at Randwick on Saturday afternoon, getting the head down where it matters most in a blanket finish.
The Lonhro gelding produced a forgettable effort first-up in the Allan Brown Stakes (1400m) at Rosehill on October 12, however, things went to plan on Saturday, with the ‘Magic Man’ Joao Moreira gaining the ideal stalking position from barrier one.
The Annabel Neasham & Rob Archibald-trained Spirit Ridge ($41.00) insisted on leading under Kerrin McEvoy, ticking over some moderate sectionals in the middle stages as New Endeavour ($8.50) cruised to his outside.
Based on how the race was run, it was always going to be a task for Democracy Manifest ($3.70); however, the son of Flying Artie refused to lay down, showing his usual blister turn-of-speed in the final 400m.
Lindermann needed to get off the rail at a crucial stage, and once the gap fell his way, the five-year-old didn’t look in any doubt as he claimed Spirit Ridge before clinging on for career win number five.
2024 Group 3 Craven Plate Replay – Lindermann
It wasn’t a pretty victory, but stable representative Charlie Duckworth was wrapped with the result as he spoke post-race.
“It was (a bit messy),” said Duckworth.
I was actually amazed that they held Lindermann in for such a long time. He’s such a big boy, I thought he’d bullock his way out a bit easier than he did.
“But they rode obviously nice, true, competitive lines and he was fortunate to get out. And obviously it was unfortunate for Democracy Manifest that he got out with just enough time to respond.
“Obviously it’s fantastic for the Kepitis family (with Lindermann). They’ve had a bit of a rough trot obviously with Riff Rocket so it’s good to get an old boy like him (Lindermann) back to his best and winning on a big day.”
Joao Moreira was delighted with the victory and credited the Waller team for the opportunities falling his way in Australia.
“He wasn’t very lucky to get the split right away,” said Moreira.
“That might have just done him good because then he got that cover he was getting until he got half-way up the straight, pulled out and obviously had the horse to go past and just win the race. Very nice horse and very nice win.
“It’s just so easy when you deal with such a kind of a person (Waller), isn’t it?
“He’s amazing, so talented as a trainer but he’s even better as a person. So for me, he’s just making my life so much easier, treating me the way as he is. I’m extremely glad to be riding winners for him.”
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