Keano gets well-earned win in Flemington closer

Keano provided the Danny O’Brien stable with a reward for its patience with a win in the Flemington carnival’s final event, the Emirates Airline Handicap (1400m) on Saturday.

The stallion has been a frustrating horse for punters after going down as favourite on seven occasions but O’Brien said Keano has had his share of excuses during his career.

“He had a wind operation which has always been an issue with him,” O’Brien said.

“He does need things to go his way. He doesn’t like being crowded up, he doesn’t like it too wet but he is a lovely colt. It has been a bit of a frustrating ride for him but I think everyone’s pretty happy with him.”

Jockey James Winks always had the son of Pins on the back of the early leader, the Mick Price-trained Lady Gaga, before Keano wore down the leader and held off the well-backed Ahdashim ($12 into $7.50).

“He looked like a sitting duck at the top of the straight but he really fought strongly,” O’Brien said.

“He had to give the mare weight and he did a really good job today.”

Lady Gaga stuck on well for third while the $2.40 favourite We’re Gonna Rock battled into seventh place.

Story by Brad Waters. To view full story at Racenet.com.au click here

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