Dean Cocivera experienced the full range of emotions at Port Hedland on Sunday with the popular trainer going from ecstasy to agony in a matter of minutes.
Cocivera’s Totes Amaze sailed past the post first in the Port Hedland Cup (2200m), but the $32,500 winner’s cheque went begging after the bay gelding was disqualified when jockey, Peter Farrell weighed in light.
“It was pretty gut-wrenching when for about 10 or 15 minutes you think you have won the race,” Cocivera said.
“It’s a race that I have never won before and he is my favourite horse.
“I’m coming to terms with it, but I was numb with shock after the race.
“I haven’t spoken to Peter, but I understand he is pretty cut up about it.
“But he turns 40 soon and has too much experience for that to happen.”
Racing and Wagering Western Australia’s Chief Steward Thoroughbreds, Brad Lewis, said Farrell weighed in light after a mix up with safety vests.
“Peter returned in at 57.8kg and I understand that arose due to a change in vests,” Lewis said on Tabradio.
“Most riders have two vests and there is quite a weight discrepancy between them.
“He weighed out with the heavy vest and then put on his light vest mistakenly after returning from the toilets.
“He rode in that vest and unfortunately for Totes Amaze he had to be disqualified.”
Len Healey’s Frangipani Monster, ridden by Ellie Cockram, was promoted to first with Starry Dane runner-up and Diamonds Uncut third.
The Vital Equine mare is Broome Cup-bound after powering home with a strong turn of foot from last position to the turn.
“It didn’t sink in for a while and I was happy to run second,” Healey said on Tabradio.
“My first thought was to talk to the Cocivera’s and say sorry for what happened.
“I then spoke to Peter and I know he was very upset.
“It’s not a nice way to win a cup, but at the end of the day I appreciate it.”
Cocivera said Totes Amaze would target the Newman Cup (2100m) on August 26.
Farrell was denied his fourth Port Hedland Cup after previous wins with Devilish Intent (2015), Night Watchman (2002) and Meridien Magique (1999).
Julio Santarelli