The John Sadler-trained Flash Feeling ran out a ready winner of the Australian Childhood Foundation Trophy (2000m) at Flemington on Saturday under a positive ride from apprentice Matthew Cartwright.
The four-year-old son of Iffraaj held his spot after clearing the gates well, settling just behind a moderate tempo and pulled out too many guns when comfortably holding Wyclif and Coolth.
Trainer John Sadler was represented by son Tom, who oversaw the entire scoring the third victory in his 11-start career.
“Bravo to the team there at John’s. He’s obviously a talented horse and very well handled,” said Tom Sadler, who has recently branched out training in a solo capacity.
“I think they were a little bit concerned after his last run but you’re never concerned when you’ve got a horse with John and he saddled up in impeccable order.
“Matty has had a long affiliation with this horse and it is very fitting that he’s got the win on Cup Week.”
Matthew Cartwright has ridden Flash Feeling in each of his three victories and he was grateful to his Pakenham conditioner for sticking with him.
“I can’t thank John enough for putting me back on this horse. I have a good association with him and it is good to get the win,” Cartwright said.
“We enjoyed a good run. There wasn’t much pace and I just let him flow into it. He got into a nice rhythm and travelled well. He has a really good turn-of-foot so I tried to just hold onto him as long as I could and he prevailed.
“He’s a tough colt and I think he will make the grade.”
Flash Feeling is a graduate of the New Zealand Bloodstock Ready To Run Sale, where he was prepared by Prima Park and purchased by Dean Hawthorne for $160,000.
By former Haunui Farm shuttle stallion Iffraaj, Flash Feeling is out of the winning High Chaparral mare Shanzam, who in turn is out of the Group Three winning mare Shanzero.
