The United States has justified his favouritism at Moonee Valley this afternoon; comfortably winning the Group 2 Crystal Mile (1600m).
The United States stormed home to win the Group 2 Crystal Mile at Moonee Valley this afternoon. Photo: Ultimate Racing Photos
The United States was undoubtedly the class horse is the small Crystal Mile field of six and the horse has stamped himself as a serious chance for the Group 1 Emirates Stakes (2000m) at Flemington in a fortnight with this afternoon’s triumph.
Jumping from the gates well, jockey Kerrin McEvoy settled The United States off the pace of Lidari, Federal and Ulmann from the gates, who set only a fair tempo in the Crystal Mile.
McEvoy produced the Galileo entire rounding onto the final straight and was a passenger as the horse comfortably overcame his rivals to secure a seventh career win in the Crystal Mile; beating home Lidari and an impressive Ulmann.
McEvoy produced a typically smart ride aboard The United States to win the Crystal Mile and revealed that it was not all smooth sailing for the classy import this afternoon.
“It was a bit sticky early because he’s not a great beginner,” McEvoy said.
“I just let him get into his stride and I was able to duck down inside Royal Rapture. He’s a big, strong horse and I was able to push him out, get him clear.
“Then it was just a matter of getting him mobile. No problems at the trip and weight-forage. Those other hoses that aren’t as highly-rated had to try and match him and they couldn’t do it.”
Prominent owner Nick Williams was pleased with The United States’ win in the Crystal Mile and conformed that providing he comes through the run well, will next target the 2016 Emirates Stakes (previously known as the Mackinnon Stakes).
“He missed a lot of work heading out of the Turnbull Stakes and we had to re-asses plans,” Williams said.
“All the team at the farm have done a wonderful job. He didn’t have much wrong with him; he probably had a bit of man-flu truth be told.
“I think he’s our best horse. He’s by Galileo who is the best sire in the world and out of a Pivotal mare, who is the best sire in Britain.
“He’s a tough horse and a great horse. All things being equal, it will be onwards to the Emirates Stakes on final day at Flemington, and hoping he can put in a similar performance.”
The United States has returned to racing in career-best form this year, and extended his record to seven wins and five minors through nineteen starts, in being crowned the Crystal Mile winner this afternoon.
