Mark Zahra wasted hard to ride Russian Revolution and the deprivation paid off when the colt landed Saturday’s Group III Vain Stakes (1100m) at Caulfield.

Russian Revolution led all the way in the Vain Stakes. Photo: Darryl Sherer
Zahra missed the winning ride aboard Great Esteem earlier in the day as he was in the sauna ensuring he could ride Russian Revolution at 55kg and was late to arrive on course.

Having led to the home turn, Russian Revolution ($1. 95 fav) went clear and although tiring late had enough in hand to defeat Highland Beat ($9.50) by a long neck with Hardham ($13) coming from second last to finish a short head off third.

The Peter and Paul Snowden-trained Russian Revolution is unbeaten in three starts and Zahra said the son of Snitzel will improve for the run.

“He did it easy to the turn and then he had a bit of a look around and wobbled a bit,” Zahra said. “He got himself sorted out and I was always confident.

“He was getting a bit tired late but it was his first run for six weeks and he’ll take good improvement from it.”

Jackson Beers, representing the training partnership, praised Russian Revolution’s courage.

“It was a tough win. He still learning his trade and had to do it out there on his own,” Beers said.

“They looked like they had their chance to run him down but couldn’t get him.

“He’s only had three starts but he’s a lovely colt and he’s got plenty of ability.”

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