Livamol Classic Day at Hastings opened with excitement as Cannon Hill emerged as the outright winner following a dead heat and a protest.
The $65,000 race, known for producing top-tier talent, featured a showdown between Cambridge raiders Tower Flypass and Cannon Hill, with local filly Grid Girl in close pursuit.
The drama unfolded in the straight when Tower Flypass, veering out, affected Grid Girl, leading to protests from Cannon Hill and Grid Girl. While Grid Girl’s protest was dismissed, Cannon Hill’s was upheld, securing his victory.
“He never really looked like he was going to get up today, but he dived well late,” said trainer Tony Pike.
“He’s a horse that’s probably still learning his trade.”
Cannon Hill, an Ardrossan colt, notched his second win in a career spanning four starts.
Pike highlighted the horse’s potential for improvement, noting his immaturity as a three-year-old. The connections, including Noel Greenhalgh, Norcross Bloodstock, and Waikato Stud, celebrated the success of the $150,000 purchase from Karaka 2022.
Stephen Marsh, trainer of runner-up Tower Flypass, acknowledged the challenges faced by the U S Navy Flag gelding.
“He just wanted to do a little bit wrong, getting away from the fence,” said Marsh.
Despite this, Marsh recognised Tower Flypass’s talent and hinted at future plans for a 1400m race.
The pre-race focus was on Molly Bloom, a $5 joint favourite for the upcoming Group 1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m).
However, Molly Bloom faced difficulties, dropping to the back of the field in a race favouring on-speed runners. Despite interference and green racing in the straight, Molly Bloom rallied for a close fifth.
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