Going into a major G1 race with five starters is a magnificent training feat, when you have the three market favourites even better. To come away with the trifecta is an even more significant achievement. John Size managed to pull this off on Sunday, with the least exposed of his runners, Ivictory securing the major share of the prize prizemoney.

Despite climbing from a Class 2 race at Happy Valley straight into G1 company, Ivictory (Zac Purton) was well supported and started second favourite at $2.70, behind last start G2 winner Beat The Clock (Joao Moreira) at $2.30. The third horse in the market was Hong Kong sprint winner Mr Stunning (Sam Clipperton) at $4.40.

Settling in behind the leaders, Peniaphobia and Blue Point, Ivictory was able to kick clear in the straight. After initially looking flat footed, Mr Stunning chased hard, but ran out of straight before he could catch Ivictory.

“It’s a big jump actually, from a Class 2,” Size sai. “I’m thrilled and relieved to see the first three favourites in the finish. Ivictory had given us all the signs. He’d won six of seven before today and his past two were emphatic including a track record time at the (Happy) Valley but there was still the possibility it might be one run too early for him.

“But as it turned out he got the run of the race and showed that he was up to it.”

Zac Purton said “I was fortunate to get on him and at the right time and then the race set up well for him, taking the trail behind the two leaders. He was quick and strong as two good horses set after him,”.

Clipperton said of Mr Stunning, “My horse was just beaten by a better one on the day”.

Moreira said of third place getter, Beat The Clock “He ran very well, finishing off very close to the winner. I’m not disappointed with the horse, I think the track is playing in favour of the front-runners.”

Considering Size has DB Pin at home and rising three year old Hot King Prawn as well, there is plenty to look forward to for the stable next season. Probably not so much for the other trainers with sprinters amongst their ranks.

Thanks to the HKJC team for the quotes from trainers and jockeys.