Brian Smith's Hopes of Derby Win After Nail-Biting Victory at Group 3 Grand Prix Stakes!

Written on the 29 May 2017

It was a photo-finish for Order Again and Volatile Mix at the Grand Prix Stakes (G3) on Saturday at Eagle Farm, but it was Order Again who clinched his first Group 3 win.

75 year old Queensland trainer, Brian Smith had tears in his eyes over the win.

"The horse wasn't entitled to do what he did today," Smith said.

It was his first time over 2200 metres and he's nowhere near his best yet.

"I've got tears in my eyes but it's more relief than from crying.

"It's great to get a good horse at my age."

Smith feels he has a chance at his first Queensland Derby win after the Grand Prix Stakes narrow victory.

Smith has only had one Queensland Derby runner with Scattergun who came fifth in 2006.

Jockey, Larry Cassidy has no reservations of Order Again's stamina to take out the 2400 metre Derby.

Many will be keen on close runner-up Volatile Mix to win the Derby, but Cassidy feels he's on the right horse, which has surged ahead as favourite for the long distance race.

"It won't be a problem. He just goes to sleep," Cassidy said.

Veteran trainer Smith first rose to prominence more than four decades ago when he was training champion Balmerino, regarded as one of the best stayers ever produced in New Zealand. He was Smith's only previous Grand Prix Stakes winner 41 years ago.

Smith doesn't believe Order Again is another Balmerino just yet, however he rates the 3yo gelding as an exciting proposition.

After the win Smith admitted he was a dreamer and wouldn't rule out taking Order Again overseas later in his career.

(Photo: Order Again claims narrow win at Grand Prix Stakes - Photo credit: Grant Peter, Trackside Photography)