LONGFORD trainer Barrie Rattray celebrated his first Carrick Cup win in over 20 years when his consistent four-year-old Devendra powered home to win the Centenary Carrick Cup over 2650 metres yesterday.
Devendra was allowed to settle at the rear of the field by the trainer’s son Todd Rattray but when he set the gelding alight in the back straight the last time he loomed as the winner turning for home and delivered the goods at the business end of the race.
However, a false start almost brought about Devendra’s demise.
“H began great at the first try but he galloped away at the second attempt but he didn’t lose too much ground and was able to tack on,” said driver Todd Rattray.
“When we hit the home turn he felt good and he went on to win well,” he aid.
The trainer wasn’t at Carrick to see the race because he was busy at Menangle in Sydney waiting for Beautide to deliver a result in a heat of the 2014 Inter Dominion.
About an hour after Devendra emerged triumphant, Beautide finished second in his heat to secure a berth in the Inter Dominion final.
Devendra was well backed to start the $2.60 favourite with the four bookmakers who made the betting ring look something like the halcyon days.
A huge crowd gathered at the Carrick Paceway for the club’s centenary meeting that boasted nine races with entertainment after the last race ensuring the celebrations carried on into the night.