Ashley Maley celebrated his best win as a trainer, but deflected all praise to Red Publisher who won the Mandurah Cup (1400n) at Pinjarra on Saturday.
The five-year-old, placed at his previous three starts, was sent out at double figure odds, but broke through after being given a top ride by Jerry Noske.
Noske had Red Publisher situated midfield and off the speed, but once a gap opened in the straight she pounced and burst her way between runners.
Red Published edged out the luckless Settlers Creek who ran a brave second for the fourth consecutive occasion this campaign.
The margin was a half-head with a further head separating third placegetter, Corporate Larrikin, who was in front until the final 50m.
Favourite Pinzu ran seventh after settling a long way back for William Pike and getting held up for the majority of the straight.
Maley said Red Publisher’s win, the gelding’s seventh from 40 starts, which boosted prizemoney to $224,000, was richly deserved.
“It’s the best win I’ve had and it’s awesome,” Maley said.
“He has been such a consistent horse and just a beautiful horse to have in the stable.
“There were some people who questioned him running in the race.
“But he’s had his hoof on the till and finally cracked the safe today.
“It’s awesome and I just love him to bits.”
Red Publisher gave Noske the second-leg of a double and continues her excellent form as she gathers momentum after spending the winter riding in Queensland.
Noske arrived with a strong finishing run on Precious Memories who broke her maiden status for Raquel Mills after five placings from her previous seven starts.
Noske also ran close seconds on two-year-old Salubrious and Red Publisher’s stable mate Push To Pass.
Julio Santarelli