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The Taj Mahal wins 2017 Zipping Classic Group 2 $300,000 at Sandown-Hillside (VIC), 2400m.
The former Aidan O’Brien-trained, Irish-bred import The Taj Mahal was most impressive in winning here when having his third start in Australia. Ridden in confident fashion by Ben Melham, after a good beginning, he settled in second place before moving up to the leader (Dandy Gent) at the 1400m. He easily went to the front at the 1000m and then ran along at a solid tempo. He turned for home with a clear advantage and was not threatened from that point to record a very good win in a very good staying performance.
The 2016 Melbourne Cup (Gr 1, 3200m) winner Almandin travelled well back in fourth place on the rails, went to third at the 400m and fought on well for second without looking likely to trouble the winner.
The favourite Big Duke raced back in sixth place, moved up well nearing the home turn and went to fourth on straightening. He then kept battling on quite well to take the minor placing after appearing to have had every chance.