Blinkers power Adamantium to classy win

The addition of blinkers proved the key as Adamantium returned to the winner’s stall following a 14 month drought in the feature $100,000 Zouki Western Health Cup (1200m) today at Flemington.

After taking on the likes of Sepoy, Mosheen and Mental as a three-year-old, trainer Danny O’Brien said the ease of today’s victory came as no surprise to the stable.

"He was a horse with very good form as a three-year-old, he’s had his little issues but we’re on top of them now," O’Brien said.

"It was probably a forgivable run last start at Ballarat, we went back to the blinkers today and if anything he got there a little soon but it was a strong win.

"He’ll take really good confidence out of today and hopefully he can now measure up to a better race."

Sent out an $8 chance after finishing seventh at Ballarat in a race that was dominated by those on the rail, Adamantium was always travelling for jockey Craig Newitt, who was happy to let the son of Elusive City roll along close the speed out in the centre of the track.

Shaken up by Newitt as the field entered the course proper, he then left his rivals in his wake sprinting away to open a four-length margin before eventually scoring by two lengths at the post from Big Buddie ($4.80) with Outstandingly ($14) a further 0.8 lengths away in third.

Favourite Amah Rock ($3) was the first horse beaten once put under pressure by jockey Glen Boss dropping out to finish last seven lengths behind the winner.

Story by Ben Asgari, to view full story on Racing Victoria website click here

Photo by Bruno Cannatelli, to view Bruno's website click here