Jack Callaghan gets his WA Group One in Golden Nugget

Top young reinsman Jack Callaghan broke his Group 1 duck in the West when Waverider (Downbytheseaside) burst through the pack in an exciting finish to take out the Group 1 $200,000 Retravision Golden Nugget at Gloucester Park.

In a keenly contested race, favourite Golden Lode couldn’t hold the lead from Bettors Pride. But rather than taking the trail Deni Roberts on Golden Lode elected to come one off the fence to sit outside the leader.

In a packed field Alta Tribute was the first to take off from the rear out three wide before settling outside the leader. Waverider was positioned one out and two back and then was pushed back to one out and three back. The winning move by Callaghan came when he tacked along behind Franco Motu who made his move at the bell.

Menemsha tried to follow but Waverider beat him to the punch and he issued a strong challenge out four wide on the final bend.

WAVERIDER NOV 7 REPLAY

Meanwhile Donald Harper on Justcallmemiki who had a perfect run behind the leader was desperately looking for clear room. When he finally got clear he was storming home but Waverider under vigorous driving by Callaghan just held on with Alta Tribute a brave third after doing it tough.

Waverider rated 1.57.1 for the 2536 metre trip with two fast final quarters in 28.2 and 28.8 seconds.

The hard luck story was that of Justcallmemiki who would have won in another stride.

Callaghan was certainly relieved after the event.

It’s taken a lot longer to get my first that what I would have liked.

Even longer to get my second. But for it to be the Nugget it’s a very special thrill.

At the 1100 metre mark he pushed out It was a bit tight at that point, I’ve got used to tight racing since I’ve been here. A lot different to the two months I spent in America I have to give credit to Ryan he’s only had eyes for this race for this horse, we’ve driven him leading up to it accordingly and just prepped him for this moment. And he was able to do that.

Callaghan who had a stint in North America earlier in the year now has eight Group 1 races to his credit and 803 wins as a driver.

Waverider who is trained by Ryan Bell was bred by prominent Perth breeder and hobby trainer Mike Howie, of Copper Lodge.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink