Luck's A Fortune had an enjoyable day out at Sandown today, scoring a cruisy win in the second heat of the Stayer's Challenge over 3600m. A confident ride by in-form apprentice Harry Coffey saw Lucky tuck in quietly behind the field, then range up to the leaders in the straight, going on to win by 3 lengths. This was Lucky's second win on the trot, as he won the first heat on the 19th of March.
Racing Manager Cheryl Carey made the speeches on Pat's behalf today, as he is in Sydney with a 3 horse team for the Championships. Cheryl paid an emotional tribute to the late Bryan Muschialli (her uncle) who selected this horse in Tasmania, and raced it with family and long-time friends. Cheryl said that Bryan would be just delighted at Lucky's second city win, and thrilled that his family and friends were getting so much enjoyment from the horse. She also congratulated Harry on his excellent ride, and thanked the Epsom Lodge staff, particularly foreman Mark Henson, for the way they have stepped up to the plate in Pat's absence.
The plan for Lucky has always been to make best use of his endurance in the longer races, and the Stayer's Challenge looks to be the ticket for him!