Just Go Bang showcased grit and stamina to win the $50,000 Gilgandra Cup over 1600m, with Kody Nestor guiding the Nick Olive-trained gelding to victory.
The five-year-old son of Sizzling overcame the challenge of carrying top weight, dictating terms from the front to hold off late-charging rivals as the $4.80 second favourite with top bookmakers.
Breaking sharply from the gates, Nestor took the initiative early, pushing forward to secure the lead.
Despite not initially intending to dictate the pace, Nestor adapted to the situation and allowed Just Go Bang to settle into a strong rhythm.
Turning for home, the gelding repelled a determined challenge from Sabuki, who loomed large late, with Sea of Flames running on gamely for third.
2025 Gilgandra Cup replay – Just Go Bang
Post-race, trainer Nick Olive lauded both horse and jockey for their execution.
“I didn’t think we’d get to the front, but I wanted to be super positive out of the gates,” Olive said.
“Kody knows this track backwards, and it was a bloody great effort. He’s a nice horse, and he’ll be even better as we stretch him out in distance.”
Reflecting on his victory, Nestor acknowledged the unplanned front-running tactics.
“It probably wasn’t my intention to lead,” Nestor admitted. “But at the first corner, I realised I had to take bad luck out of the equation. Coming into the home turn, I felt like we had them, and he just kept giving.”
Just Go Bang’s victory was a testament to his consistency, adding another highlight to a career that now boasts nine wins from 22 starts.
The gelding has proven adept at competing across various distances and surfaces, with the Gilgandra Cup win further affirming his status as a reliable campaigner.
Sabuki finished a gallant second under Michael Heagney, continuing her excellent form, while Sea of Flames, last year’s winner, delivered another strong showing for trainer Michael Mulholland.
Olive praised the gelding’s resilience and strategic placement.
“He had even been considered for a tougher race in town yesterday, but we opted for the softer option, and it worked out perfectly. It’s a great result for Graham, the owner, who’s been a fantastic supporter.”
Just Go Bang’s next steps may include tackling longer trips as Olive looks to maximise the gelding’s staying potential.
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