The Bjorn Baker-trained Iowna Merc ($4.00) has put the head down where it matters most to claim the Group 3 Liverpool City Cup (1300m) at Randwick on Saturday afternoon.
The son of Winning Rupert got the verdict in a blanket go in the concluding stages, as With Your Blessing ($3.90) and the fast-finishing Gringotts ($3.60) ensured a grandstand finish to the $250,000 feature.
With Your Blessing was sent to the top to battle out the early lead alongside Willaidow ($5.50), with the pair utilizing the low weight to tick over some modest sectionals.
Iowna Merc got the back of With Your Blessing and went searching for a run towards the inside rail under Joshua Parr, while Gringotts settled towards the rear of the field as Tommy Berry dragged back despite drawing gate two.
With Your Blessing gave a strong kick under Alysha Collett and appeared to be doing enough as they approached the final furlong; however, Iowna Merc was able to squeeze along the inside to get the head down in the shadows of the post, while Gringotts could be one to follow after a luckless run with the big weight.
Luke Hilton spoke post-race on behalf of the Bjorn Baker barn.
“He deserved it,” said Hilton.
“He’s been so honest this campaign.
“He’s done such a good job this time in and he’s been punching around in benchmark grade but he’s now a Group 3 horse and he ran a fantastic race today.”
Joshua Parr was happy to get the photo as he spoke post-race.
“It is an anxious moment and a bizarre feeling, As a jockey, going back to the inside, you want to make sure you win and if you get beaten by a pimple going back to the inside, it is hard to cop,” said Parr.
“I’m so glad he stuck his head out and got the job done for us.
“His will and the confidence (with which) he’s become. He once lacked that and you had to nurture him every step of the way. Now he travels boldly and really lets go. He’s an easy horse to ride now that he has grown in confidence.”
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