Holymanz delivered a resolute performance to secure back-to-back victories in the Coastal Classic at Geelong, overcoming a strong field and a weight disadvantage to claim the $300,000 feature.
Ridden patiently by Saffie Osborne, the five-year-old gelding tracked early leaders Dashing and Mathletic through a steady tempo before launching his winning bid in the final stages of the 1700m contest.
As the field turned for home, Riot and Rose made a bold move to seize the lead, but Holymanz surged late, outstaying his rivals to win by 0.4 lengths in a time of 1:43.21 on a Good 3 track.
Starting at $3.80 with the top bookmakers, Holymanz defeated the Peter Moody-trained Riot and Rose ($4.40), with Dashing ($3.20) finishing a brave third after leading for much of the race.
Geelong Coastal Classic Replay – Holymanz
Osborne, celebrating a feature win during her Australian stint, credited her patient tactics for the result.
“The key was timing the run just right,” Osborne said.
“I waited as long as possible before asking him for his best, and he responded beautifully under the weight.”
Trainer Ciaron Maher praised Holymanz’s toughness and consistency.
“He’s carrying more weight than last year, but he showed his class,” Maher said.
“He’s a genuine stakes-level horse, and this win highlights his resilience and adaptability.”
Riot and Rose, trained by Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, continued an impressive return campaign, pushing Holymanz to the wire.
Meanwhile, Dashing earned plaudits for his tenacity, battling on for third despite being headed in the straight.
Holymanz, a son of Almanzor, now boasts six career wins from 24 starts, with career earnings surpassing $960,000.
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