Great Shot made an outstanding return to racing with a courageous win in the Listed Cyril Flower Stakes (1200m) at Ascot on Saturday.
The four-year-old had not been seen at the races since last year’s Ascot summer carnival where he performed creditably without winning.
Great Shot ran second in the Group 3 Asian Beau Stakes (1400m) and third in the Listed Carbine Club Of WA Stakes (1400m).
The Magnus gelding was sent out a $5.90 chance after warming up for his return with an impressive Belmont trial win.
Ridden by regular jockey Craig Staples he went forward and settled second in running behind leader, Potent Secret.
Great Shot appeared beaten when Potent Secret kicked clear in the straight and Dream Lifter loomed large.
But in a fighting performance the son of Magnus kicked again and fought on to defeat Dream Lifter by a half length.
Great Southern galloper Potent Secret again ran another terrific race in front before fading late to finish third.
The top two in the market Red Ora and Coming Back charged home late, but the bird had flown and they finished fourth and fifth respectively.
Great Shot will be aimed at the Pinjarra Classic (1300m) on February 26 and the Bunbury Stakes on March 19.
The Listed Challenge Stakes was an all girl affair with top filly, Precious Memories, trained by Raquel Mills and ridden by Jerry Noske, scoring a thrilling victory over Veuve De Vega.
Veuve De Vega appeared to have the race in his keeping when he shot clear in the straight, but Precious Memories chased hard and cut his lead down near the post.
The William Pike juggernaut continued when he landed a double, but it came at a cost after he was suspended for careless riding on unbeaten Galaxy Star.
The leading hoop, who later guided stable mate Point to victory, will be away from the saddle for 14 days.
Julio Santarelli