Bennett Racing's Southport Tycoon Delivers Thrilling Victory in Manikato Stakes

Winner's Circle Nathan Bennett, Ciaron Maher and Southport Tycoon Owners (Photo: Bred 4 Sports)

In a breathtaking finish at The Valley, powering through a roaring crowd, Southport Tycoon triumphed in the Manikato Stakes (Gr 1, 1200m), securing his second elite-level victory and further solidifying Widden Stud’s strategic decision to invest in the son of Written Tycoon (Iglesia). This dramatic win under the night lights showcased a remarkable combination of skillful riding and determination.

Trained by Ciaron Maher, Southport Tycoon had already made a name for himself with a victory in the Australian Guineas (Gr 1, 1600m) earlier this year. However, after a disappointing ninth place in the All Aged Stakes (Gr 1, 1400m) in April and a fifth-place finish in the Show County Quality (Gr 3, 1200m) on August 24, expectations were tempered, and he entered the race as an unfancied $21 chance.

Mark Zahra (middle) and Ciaron Maher (right). (Photo: Bred 4 Sports)

Mark Zahra, who previously rode Southport Tycoon, returned to the saddle for this pivotal race. As the field approached the home bend, Zahra and Southport Tycoon found themselves surrounded by a wall of horses. Maintaining composure, Zahra hugged the inside rail and gradually made headway. With just 150 meters to go, he seized the moment, urging his mount to unleash a powerful surge.

Despite the late charge from Southport Tycoon, it seemed that the stablemate and favourite, Growing Empire (Zoustar), had the race in hand as he surged ahead. However, in a thrilling climax, Southport Tycoon closed the gap dramatically, narrowly winning by a mere 0.1 lengths, marking the end of Growing Empire’s four-race unbeaten streak. I Wish I Win (Savabeel) finished two lengths behind in third.

Bennett Racing enjoyed a double celebration that evening, having seen Baraqiel (Snitzel) win a Benchmark 84 (1200m) race earlier in the night. Craig Williams, who rode the runner-up Growing Empire, acknowledged the colt's potential for growth after facing older rivals for the first time.

Ciaron Maher and Southport Tycoon. (Bred 4 Sports)

Southport Tycoon, purchased for $300,000 at the 2022 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, is out of the More Than Ready mare Ready To Rule. This victory adds to Written Tycoon’s impressive tally of 15 individual elite-level winners, further enhancing his reputation in the breeding world.

Southport Tycoon is listed as Bennett Racing’s Number 1 of Metro Winners, with Bennett Racing having 27 Metro Winning Horses from 66 runners at a 41% success rate. Bennett Racing produce metro- performing athletes at an industry benchmark strike rate of over 53%, with 16 Stakes horses from 66 runners.

Poster: Bennett Racing. (Photo: Bred 4 Sports)

Bennett Racing produce stakes- performing athletes at an industry-benchmark strike rate of over 24%.

Nathan Bennett owner of Bennett Racing. (Photo: Bred 4 Sports)

As Bennett Racing continues to focus on delivering an exceptional experience for horse owners, Nathan Bennett remains committed to transparency and communication, ensuring all owners feel valued and informed. With trainers in four states, Bennett Racing is well-positioned to maximize the potential of each horse in their care.