Stawell horse trainer Dane Smith has secured his second Avoca Cup as Finn McCool took out the honours on Saturday, October 20.
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Former Stawell jockey Jess Eaton rode the ex-Weir galloper – her first win since returning from a five-month layoff after suffering a broken leg as a result of a raceday incident at Sale in April.
Smith was ecstatic with the outcome and very happy with the run.
“We pushed forward from the gate. The speed was a bit hot early, but we made a move from the 1000m,” he said.
“The move gave us space on the field and it was enough to hold them off until the line”.
Finn McCool was able to pressure favourite, Hardern, who lead the field until about 600m from home.
Smith said he was happy with Eaton’s performance with the horse.
“Jess gave it a 10 out of 10 ride. She followed instructions to the tee, which was very important on that horse,” he said.
In 2013 Smith secured his first Avoca Cup with his first win since obtaining his horse trainer's licence.
Jess gave it a 10 out of 10 ride. She followed instructions to the tee, which was very important on that horse.
- Dane Smith