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Consistent galloper Earnest Ernest finally broke through for long overdue win when scoring in the $85,000 Super Saver (BM85) Handicap (1200m) at Warwick Farm on Saturday.
The Joseph Pride-trained galloper has had head problems in recent times and had failed to get over the line when well supported, but Pride was more than up to the challenge.
With blinkers on, as well as Christian Reith, Earnest Ernest still tried to give up 100m from home but the six-year-old behaved himself well enough for Reith to get him over the line hands and heels.
Punters clearly weren't taking any chances, backing to start a $5 second favourite with TAB Sportsbet and it paid off for them. At the line Earnest Ernest held a half-length advantage over Bay Window with a neck to Allabout Glory in third. The overall time was 1.11.08 with the last 600m run in 35.94.
“This horse has become a bit of a project for me,” Pride said. “He is frustrated so I am glad I can get him a win.
“He is owned by Kelvin McGrail and Kelvin is good friends with John Size and has worked with him close. He is a terrific bloke and just happy to get a win for him.
“He loves Warwick Farm and I think the blinkers were a good change for him, but I think with the two weeks between runs and a lovely ride from Christian.”
“Oh, finally,” Reith said. “It has been a very frustrating run this preparation because he has got talent, this horse, it has just been more mental with him.
“It was a great move by Joey to put the blinkers on, he was trucking coming to the furlong, I didn't want to let him go but he was just pulling me there, he did good.”
Earnest Ernest is by Sandtrap (USA) out of the Groom Dancer (USA) mare Our Private Dancer (NZ) and is owned by Kelvin McGrail. His record now stands at 18 starts for three wins and 10 minor placings.