Waller, McDonald combine for Wyong Cup success

Chris Waller and James McDonald once again showcased their dominance in Australian racing, combining to secure another victory in the Wyong Cup on Friday.

The dynamic trainer-jockey partnership produced Saltcoats, who gave McDonald his fourth win in the $250,000 Listed feature, while Waller celebrated his ninth triumph in the race. It was the perfect rebound for the gelding, who had impressed in the Premier’s Cup Prelude (2000m) before a flat run in the Group 3 Premier’s Cup (2000m).

Sent out as the $1.90 favourite, Saltcoats enjoyed a dream run on the fence and surged late to wear down Salt Lake City ($15), with Glory Daze ($5.50) another head away in third. “He did everything perfectly, he popped away nicely, relaxed like a dream and that enabled him to get the trip,” McDonald said. “That (2100m) is probably as far as he wants but he did a good job today.”

The victory improved Saltcoats’ record to five wins from 18 starts, taking his career earnings to $586,290.

The day’s other highlight was the $250,000 Group 3 Mona Lisa Stakes, which saw Michael Freedman’s Just Feelin’ Lucky ($4.40 fav) prevail under Tommy Berry, defeating outsider Overriding ($41). McDonald finished third aboard Snow In May.

Fans can track Saltcoats and other spring stars across early markets available with leading betting sites.

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