The Annabel and Rob Archibald stable reaped the benefits of a calculated relocation when Mormona led home their quartet of runners in the Deane Lester Flemington Cup 1849 (2800m) at Flemington on Saturday.
Facing a dearth of suitable staying races in Sydney, the Archibalds transported Mormona, Hopeful, Sir Chartwell and Double Cherry to their newly established Victorian base, specifically targeting the 2800-metre feature.
Mormona made the most of the opportunity, scoring by a short neck over race favourite Muktamil, with Samuel Langhorne finishing another 1-¼ lengths away in third.
Jamie Melham piloted Mormona in what was her first ride on the imported stayer, and she was impressed with his stamina and recovery.
“I told the owners afterwards this horse will relish even further,” Melham said. “His fitness levels are incredible. He wasn’t puffing at all—I think I was breathing harder than he was post-race!”
Rob Archibald said the win validated the decision to utilise their Flemington stables, particularly for long-distance horses who had few options in New South Wales.
“There just weren’t any races in Sydney for these horses,” Archibald said. “It was a logical decision to bring them to Melbourne, and it’s rewarding to see it pay off.”
Saturday’s victory marked Mormona’s first win on Australian soil since arriving from France, where he was a five-time winner. He had previously signalled improvement with a strong second in the Stayers Cup at Rosehill last month.
“He’s steadily adapted to our conditions,” Archibald said. “We’re not sure whether we back off and aim for spring or press on, but this performance confirms he’s heading the right way.”
Archibald noted the gelding’s potential over even longer trips, though he acknowledged they’d likely be patient with him this season.
“He might not be ready for extreme distances just yet, but that’s definitely in the picture down the line,” he said.
Mormona jumped as a $4.20 chance with betting sites, delivering a timely return for punters backing his breakthrough run in Australia.
