John O’Shea is making the Wyong Leagues Group Wyong Cup his own, claiming his third feature in just four years on September 6.
Lion’s Roar was the latest of O’Shea’s protégés to claim the prestigious Listed race and the first since linking with training partner Tom Charlton.
A super tactical ride by Jason Collett helped secure Lion’s Roar’s Cup win.
He was able to get the gelding into the perfect rhythm in the early stages of the 2100m race, before hitting the front in the straight and holding out his rivals on the line.
The seven-year-old showed his supreme staying prowess to win the $250,000 race, taking his prizemoney to more than $2.3M.
He has now won six of his 36 starts with 10 minor placings for owners Champion Thoroughbreds, including the G1 Randwick Guinease in 2021.
“It was a really rewarding win for the team,” O’Shea said.
“We had a plan to go into the Rowley Mile and come here and he’s been successful.
“He was really strong and gallant.
“He has been a tremendous horse for Champion Thoroughbreds and our stable.
“He won his first race as a two-year-old and is seven now and it’s not over yet.
“Where do we find more of them?”
O’Shea was also complimentary of the ride by Collett, who brought up a race to race double with Lion’s Roar.
“He is riding in sensational form,” O’Shea said.
“He’s grown a leg, and we are lucky to be associated with him.”
O’Shea’s winning Wyong Cup run began in 2021 with Berdibek, followed by Benaud last year.
Chris Waller still holds the record with eight cup wins but the O’Shea/Charlton stable has dominated in the past few years.
The latest victory came in front of one of the biggest Cup crowds in recent years, with brilliant weather and fabulous entertainment, including Fashions On The Field, combining to attract large numbers of racing fans.
Chief Executive Greg Purcell said Cup Day was the perfect culmination for the Carlton United three-day carnival.
“It was a new format this year and it worked very well,” he said.
“Ladies Day and Father’s Day had race goers prepared and ready for a big Cup Day and that is how it worked out.
“All our function areas were sold out and we had a large number of walk ins on the day.
“It’s the first time we’ve had a band following the Cup and this also proved to be very popular.
“It’s a huge credit to our staff to have both the track and facilities pristine for the Cup carnival.
“They did a wonderful job, and all the feedback was very positive.
“We were also appreciative of the support we received from the Gosford and Newcastle Clubs with the loan of equipment given our large number of pre-sales.”
Kristen Buchanan celebrated her birthday and hometown Cup Day in perfect fashion with Kervette getting the job done in the Carlton Draught Provincial BM64 (1600m).
Josh Parr claimed the prestigious Nathan Berry Shield for the most successful rider of the three days.
He was presented with the Shield, sponsored by Markey Saddlery & Steve Hart Photographics, by Tommy Berry.
Purcell said the focus will now turn to the Magic Millions on Wednesday, December 11, and the newly announced stand-alone Metropolitan meeting on Saturday, January 11, which will include the $500,000 Lakes Mile.