A Group 1 Win First for Redzel at Doomben 10,000!

Written on the 15 May 2017

It was a Group 1 first for Redzel, and a Doomben 10,000 first for jockey Jim Byrne when Redzel claimed victory by half a length at the $700,000 Doomben 10,000 on Saturday.

Second placer Counterattack trained by Chris Waller was just not strong enough on the day, with Derryn coming in third place, .8 lengths behind Redzel.

This was also a first Doomben 10,000 win for trainers Peter and Paul Snowden, a father and son team. Peter Snowden alone however has won two previous Doomben 10,000's with Beaded (2011) and Epaulette (2013).

The 4yo Snitzel sired gelding seemed to win with ease when he lead all the way, with stable mate Russian Revolution (also a Snitzel sired colt) coming home in 4th place.

"We didn't think there was much between Redzel and Russian Revolution after they quinellaed the Group 1 Galaxy in the autumn," Snowden said.

"They had both trialled well and they had both done well here."

Jockey, Kerrin McEvoy said Russian Revolution just wasn't happy in the wet conditions.

Snowden paid tribute to Byrne's efforts and his attention to detail prior to the race.

"Jim went through every nook and cranny of the race and we talked about what could and couldn't happen and it panned out perfectly because he controlled the tempo, rated him nicely and the horse did a good job."

Byrne said Redzel had travelled well in front and kicked strongly in the straight. He said it was a great thrill to win a Group 1 race for the Snowden's and their owners.

This was Jim Byrne's first Group 1 win since Riva San claimed the 2008 Queensland Derby.

Snowden confirmed Redzel would now be spelled in preparation for the Spring Carnival in Melbourne.

"He has done a good job and he has got his deserved Group 1. He can have a rest."

Chris Waller said Counterattack had done well to chase the winner who he rated a good horse.

"But our bloke was still strong through the line and an extra 100 metres in the Kingsford Smith Cup will suit him," Waller said.

Derryn jockey Regan Bayliss said the colt was an ideal Stradbroke horse.

(Photo: Peter Snowden and Jim Byrne after Redzel won the Doomben 10,000 - Photo source: The Australian)