It’s a blowout for punters in the Country Championship Final on Day 1 of The Championships, as $81 bolter Sizzle Minizzle has careered away with the $500,000 prize.
Jockey Sam Clipperton had just seen success in the race prior aboard, Arts, at a monster price in the Adrian Knox and has proceeded to produce another stunning performance with Sizzle Minizzle.
He came out of the western NSW qualifier at Coonamble, running second behind Listen To The Band to claim his spot in the final, and thanks to a perfect steer by Sam Clipperton was able to stalk the speed from barrier four, before striking up the inside running rail to score.
Kimberley Secrets set the tempo throughout and was a beaten commodity with 200m to travel, while at one stage Our Last Cash looked the winner, but Sizzle Minizzle crafted up the inside with Talbragar and I’ve Been Tryin’ forced to settle for the minor money.
2023 Country Championship Final – Sizzle Minizzle
It was a stunning performance that even had trainer Brett Robb surprised his galloper handled the heavy conditions as he spoke post-race about his impressive preparation.
“When I was getting in the truck to come here this morning from out at Penrith and they rung me and said it was pouring down rain,” said Robb.
“I was getting real nervous then because I didn’t think he could handle the wet. He just showed he can.
“I knew I was coming here with a lot fitter horse than what I had at Coonamble (qualifying heat), he missed out on a bit of work heading into it.
“Between now and then, I’ve been able to jam more work into him, I knew I had a fitter horse.
“I was only telling someone this morning that I’ll be glad when this weekend is over because you’re preparing these horses for this a long time out.
“He’s just taken a little bit longer than we thought for the penny to drop. I think he’s got more improvement left in him, I think we’re going to have a lot of fun with him.”
Jockey Sam Clipperton echoed a similar sentiment in regards to the track and Sizzle Minizzle handling the conditions, before praising trainer Brett Robb.
“The first half he was giving me the indication that he wasn’t handling it,” said Clipperton.
“I thought ‘alright I’ll get you to the 600m and look after you mate.’ Well, the further the race went on he just grabbed the bridle more and more and just took the shortest way home, it all opened up on the rail.
“Brett Rob, the trainer always gives me a ride in the Highways and a real good countryman, a real good bush fella and he’s a great horseman.
“I’m really proud of him and his team. It’s a big occasion for everyone involved and it’s like the Melbourne Cup or the The Everest of the bush.”
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