Terravista gains compensation in dramatic race

Flemington: Black Caviar Lightning (Group 1) 5f, 2yo+

Agonisingly denied last year, Terravista this time claimed victory in a dramatic running of the Black Caviar Lightning, with three horses withdrawn in the stalls.

Trained by Joe Pride, Terravista lost out to Chautauqua by a short head 12 months ago, a defeat that was all the more frustrating as victory looked assured before jockey Damien Oliver lost his whip and was caught late on.

Both Terravista and runner-up Spieth had to wait for gaps to emerge before powering home, and connections of the second were entitled to feel unlucky as Spieth was trapped for a vital couple of extra strides while Terravista flew home.

Race result

Winning trainer Pride said: "My bloke is just so honest and really deserved to win another group 1,'' Pride said.

"I've thought all along he's the best horse I've ever had and if he retired winning only one Group 1 I would have been shattered."

A disappointed Bryce Heys, trainer of runner-up Spieth, added: ‘'He is going to get a run in transit one day that presents with a run that allows us to show him off.''

Pre-race drama

The field was reduced by three before the gates opened when The Quarterback reared and flipped over in the stalls, lashing out at the horses drawn either side of him.

He was withdrawn, along with Faatinah and Orujo.