Flemington trainer Mark Kavanagh and owner Lawrence Eales signalled they would again be major players this spring when Whobegotyou defeated reigning Horse of the Year Typhoon Tracy in the Dato Tan Chin Nam Stakes at Moonee Valley on Saturday.
Only a week ago, the pair landed the Makybe Diva Stakes with impressive Melbourne Cup hero Shocking, who is the favourite for this year's 150th anniversary of the great race.
The chestnut became the fourth multiple winner of the 1600m event having won it last year.
He emulated Lad Of The Manor (2005-06), Lawman (1981-82), while Shorengro (1968-1970) won the race three times.
"He just excels at this track. He's a better horse this year, I'm pretty happy with him," Kavanagh said.
"He's got a bit of improvement in him too."
Whobegotyou would also attempt back-to-back wins in the Yalumba Stakes (2000m) at Caulfield on October 9, before heading to the Cox Plate (2040m) at the Valley on October 23.
With Michael Rodd in the saddle, Whobegotyou ($3.10) swept around the field from second last of the eight runners to score by two lengths from Typhoon Tracy ($4) with Shoot Out ($2.70 fav) a length away third.
Leading trainer Peter Moody notified stewards before the race that an attempt would be made to ride Typhoon Tracy off the pace if circumstances permitted and Luke Nolen did just that, settling her fifth with Hissing Sid the race leader.
Typhoon Tracy made her run three wide on the turn but Whobegotyou was poised to pounce and was too strong in the run home.
Trainer John Wallace felt that Shoot Out was disadvantaged by being on the inside on Saturday.
- AAP
Whobegotyou. Photo / Getty Images
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