In what was a demolition job of a training performance, Chris Waller has packed the podium with his stable of stayers to press a comprehensive stamp on the Group 3 Manion Cup (2400m).
Destined for next month’s Sydney Cup, No Compromise booked her ticket to the Group 1 staying feature with a gutsy performance to fend off stablemates Surefire and Chalk Stream into the minors.
Lunging forward on jumping, the Kiwi import found himself closer than usual in the early goings under the riding of jockey Jay Ford.
Not wanting to get caught wide from the high gate (10), Ford allowed his mount to slide forward and settle outside the lead, a position quite foreign to the gelding.
Quickly taking over when straightening, it was inevitable the pair were going to be in for a grudge match to the finish when race favourite Zeyrek ambled up on the outside passing the 300m.
Seeing off her first challenger, the son of Pins was in for one last dual as stablemates Surefire and Her Majesty’s horse Chalk Stream let down with their contests.
Holding them off, the four-year-old went onto defeat Surefire by just over half a length on the line, with a margin of 1.4L back to the other Waller runner.
Thrilled with the performances of his runners, Waller was impressed with the determination shown by the winner but was admittedly surprised with the forward position he raced in.
“It was certainly a lot closer than I expected,” Waller said.
“If he had got posted deep, it would have been a tricky run but to Jay’s credit he backed himself and got the job done.
“There was a bit of firepower chasing him and they will both (Surefire & Chalk Stream) improve.
“All three will go towards the Sydney Cup.”
The Sydney Cup (3200m) will take place at Randwick on April 9.