Trainer David Black savoured his second Carnarvon Cup success but humbly deflected all praise to Kardy and apprentice jockey Kate Fitzgerald.

Kardy displayed resoluteness  under intense pressure while Fitzgerald remained composed when the race was at its most fierce.

They combined to shake off Eyes Don’t lie to win by a short neck with Galaxon gaining the edge over Devilish Intent in a thrilling finish.

The quartet of runners finished seven lengths clear over their nearest rival Silver Minx in a race that started at breakneck speed.

Fa’Em and Fleming Son set the sparks flying early but couldn’t sustain the pressure and finished last and second last respectively.

Fitzgerald had Kardy settled behind the speed in third position before pouncing and grabbing the lead at the top of the straight

Black, who prepared Ten Degrees to win the Carnarvon Cup two- years ago, lavished praise on Fitzgerald’s ride.

“It was a great ride and she followed instructions perfectly,” said Black.

“I thought a few of them were going to run over us but she didn’t go to water.

“She summed up the race and judged the pace perfectly.

“Her family were here to watch and I’m thrilled for her.”

Fitzgerald and Kardy won their second feature in as many weeks after taking out the Peter Evans Memorial Handicap (1700m) last fortnight.

“I think he was peaking at the right time and was on the way up,” said Black.

“Several of the other runners were nearing the end of their preparations.

“This horse has the ability and did run a second behind Global Flirt at Belmont earlier.

“He is at his best between 1800m and 2000m and if he pulls up well I might consider taking him to Perth.”

Favourite Tindal, Carnarvon’s Horse of the Year, ended the season on a mixed note when he finished 11th in the field of 14.

The nine-year-old son of Testa Rossa is prepared by Jo-Anne Leeson who claimed Champion Trainer honours.

Andrew Masters won the Jockey trophy and Danielle Conroy the Adrian Chan Memorial Apprentice Rider of the Year.

In contrast to the Carnarvon Cup, the $25,000 Landmark Sprint was a one-act affair.

Wotchinyu, trained by Rick Evans and ridden by apprentice Casey Hunter, defeated Sea Tryst by 3 ½ lengths.

 RWWA: Julio Santarelli