Scenic Lodge supplied a Group 1 quinella at Ascot on Saturday when Great Shot defeated Black Heart Back in a thrilling finish to the Railway Stakes (1600m)
Both horses were bred and raised at Scenic Lodge in Muchea before graduating through Perth Magic Millions yearling sales.
Showing his true fighting capabilities, Great Shot staved off strong challenges in the straight from a number of runners before holding out WA Horse of the Year Black Heart Bart in a desperate finish.
“I thought he would run a great race,” a delighted trainer Rhys Radford said after the $1 million Mile. “I couldn’t get him any better and just hoped his best would be good enough. He’s a horse that tries so hard and never gives in.”
Great Shot (Magnus) has turned out an incredible money-spinner for Claremont owners Frank and May Edwards since they purchased him for $31,000 from Scenic Lodge at the 2014 Perth Magic Millions. As it stands, his earnings have flown past $1.20 million.
He’s a half brother to Caulfield stakes winner Gawne. Their dam Satin Covers (Dr Grace) is a Sydney-winning daughter of Satin Sand (G1 Coolmore Classic).
“He’s really tough and I was confident today,” jockey Craig Staples said. “I’ve liked him since Day 1. He loves the challenge when other horses come at him – he really digs in.”
Black Heart Bart lost no admirers with a courageous effort in defeat and will stay in training for the G1 Kingston Town Classic (1800m) on December 9. He is by Scenic Lodge champion Blackfriars and has earned $3.92 million since changing hands at the 2012 Perth Magic Millions.