Peter Moody kept composure through most of Black Caviar’s dominance, but the long-time trainer was overcome after Sheza Alibi’s electrifying capture of the Doncaster Mile (1600m) at Randwick.
Held back in the 16-horse pack, the $1.90 elect faced long odds turning for the finish, but accelerated past foes to claim a decisive 4¼-length margin over Autumn Boy ($10).
Launching from Randwick with legend T J Smith and tending 1988 winner Lygon Arms, Moody emphasised the win’s heartfelt value.
“I remember my time with T J and that’s why it’s always special. Randwick was always home to me,” Moody said.
“I’ve been blessed to train one of the greatest we have ever seen, but this filly is just amazing. I’m not saying she is Black Caviar, but how good.
“She is just a special, special horse. Crikey. Where’s the ceiling? You don’t know.”
Sheza Alibi etched history as the first three-year-old filly Doncaster Mile winner post-Sunline’s 1999 effort, marking her as a premier athlete.
The showdown with flawless mare Autumn Glow was averted via her entry in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes, yet Moody foresees it ahead.
“I’m happy Autumn Glow wasn’t here, I can tell you that,” Moody said.
“She’s a superstar and we saw her strut her stuff here earlier in the day.
“The day will probably come – let’s hope it does for Australian racing – where they meet.”
Secured for $10,000 online after failing debut at Rockhampton maiden ranks, Sheza Alibi holds seven successes from 10.
Her trainer Moody noted no flashy appearance.
“She is so nondescript. She doesn’t stand out in the yard. She doesn’t stand out at home in training. She is just a tradesman, she’s got a great hip, a big deep girth and a hell of a lot of ability,” he said.
Jamie Melham, piloting his second Doncaster Mile winner since Cascadian 2021, praised the filly effusively.
“I’ve sat on some very special horses before, but I don’t think any come close to the feel she just gave me then,” Melham said.
“What a horse. I trialled her the other day and she gave me a nice feel, but with blinkers on today, Jesus Christ. I’ve never sat on a horse that has given me goosebumps like that before.”
To a throng beyond 15,000, Sheza Alibi ruled supreme, Autumn Boy game in defeat for second, Chris Waller’s Militarize ($41) third 1¼ lengths further back.
Head to racing betting markets for competitive odds on Doncaster Mile follow-ups.
