Deekay showed his trademark tenacity to secure the 2025 Gold Eldorado (1200m) on Sunday, March 9, at Echuca.
Trained by Anthony Chibnall and ridden by John Allen, the gelding prevailed in a thrilling finish, edging out Shesallshenanigans in the final strides.
Jumping a touch slowly from barrier two, Deekay settled midfield while Sir Davy and Highland George set a genuine tempo up front.
Shesallshenanigans, the main danger in the market, travelled well behind them, while Allen bided his time aboard Deekay, waiting for the right moment to strike.
Turning for home, Shesallshenanigans loomed ominously and hit the front at the 300m mark, but Deekay quickly shifted into top gear.
The two favourites went stride for stride down the straight in an enthralling battle, with Deekay lunging late to get the verdict by 0.2 lengths as the $1.75 favourite with the top online bookmaker.
Echuca Gold Eldorado Race Replay – Deekay
Allen was full of praise for the five-year-old’s fighting qualities.
“He’s a tough, old horse and very genuine. I knew if we could have the last crack at her, he’d really knuckle down late. I tried to hold him up as long as I could because he doesn’t always put them away when he hits the front, but once I got stuck into him, he really found the line.”
Trainer Anthony Chibnall spoke about the emotional connection to Deekay, with part-owner Wendy attending the races for the first time since her late husband Leon, who helped purchase the gelding, passed away.
“Leon picked him out at the sales, and it’s just special to have Wendy here today to see him win. He’s been a great horse for us, and to get back-to-back wins in this race is just fantastic.”
With five wins and over $541,300 in prize money, Deekay has been a consistent performer for connections.
Chibnall hinted that bigger targets could be on the horizon, with the VOBIS Gold series providing lucrative options.
“The VOBIS Gold bonuses make it a no-brainer to target these races. We paid $75,000 for him, and he’s won over $450,000, so he’s been a great investment. We’ll see how he pulls up, but there are plenty of good races ahead for him.”
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