An unexpected winner emerged as Blonde Star claimed the Hobart Cup (2400m), bestowing trainer Imogen Miller and jockey Erica Byrne Burke with their maiden Group 3 laurel.
The filly by Starcraft, sent out at $31, proved too strong for the favourite right to the line in a blanket finish, setting a new 2400m benchmark at Elwick.
Tasmania retains the Hobart Cup for the initial time since 2020’s Toorak Affair.
Complications arising from her last effort render this Miller success extra special.
“We knew she’d run well today. Things didn’t really go our way at Devonport, so it’s probably been unlucky there,” she said.
“I thought her run was good last start, but maybe she wasn’t at her best, and she pulled up and had a few little niggling issues in between runs, so really very happy obviously with her today.
“She’s a ripping little horse and she’s a beautiful horse to have around. She tries hard, she’s consistent. I mean, can’t really fault her. We all love her.”
Miller’s beau and previous jockey Brendon McCoul noted: “This last week, since her last run, we’ve been really, really happy with her. I said to the owners before the race, we’re a lot more confident with her leading into this.”
“It’s obviously a tougher race than last start here, but we were much happier with her leading into this race. Very confident she’d run well and ecstatic to get the win.”
Out of stall five, Byrne Burke travelled three-wide covered in the opening portion.
About 800m from home, she drove forward assertively, pocketting the challenger off the back turn as the five-year-old accelerated around the bend.
Ready to challenge at the top of the straight, a gritty duel ensued with Ziryab and Taramansour pressing the mare from adjacent positions.
At the post, Blonde Star matched strides with Ziryab, with the steward taking time to verify the nine as top scorer.
Erica Byrne Burke was elated post-race.
“I’m in disbelief. I didn’t believe it until I came back and saw the number and everyone’s cheering, but, yeah, I can’t believe it,” she said.
“She was so good. I can probably say now I gave it a bad ride. I wanted to do this for Brendon and (Imogen), and all the owners, it’s just great.
“I was just saying in my head, just don’t hit the front too soon. It’s a long way from home. But, God, she was gutsy.
“To win a Hobart Cup, it doesn’t really feel real. For Brendon and Imogen to keep me on his horse, they’ve been very good and great supporters. I’m kind of lost for words, really. It’s just brilliant.”
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