Racing News
Pattillo ride proves the difference
JOCKEY Tony Pattillo got top marks from connections after guiding Tacker home in a desperate finish to the Attwood Marshall Maiden Plate (1300m) at the Gold Coast today.
Tacker ($4.60 into $4.20) came from midfield on the turn to edge out the $2.80 favourite Kar Ma Te by a half head with Liberty Quest ($21) two lengths away in third.
Pattillo, who returned to the saddle two months ago after lengthy stints on the sidelines with injuries, had to switch course in the straight and drive Tacker through a narrow gap between runners to snatch the last-stride win.
“Tony’s always been a fine rider and that was a terrific ride to get Tacker home today,’’ said Vic Dawson, representing his son Gary, who races Tacker.
Trained at Murwillumbah by Mat Dunn, the six-year-old Tacker was lining up for his 13th start this afternoon.
He went close to breaking through at the Gold Coast in July when runner-up at successive starts.
“He’s a six-year-old and hasn’t had that many starts as we always like to give our horses plenty of time,’’ said Vic Dawson. "He went close a couple of times here recently and deserves this win.''
Story: Neil Archer
Photo: Trackside Photography Pty Ltd
