Sepoy had to work for the win in the Coolmore Stud Stakes

The Coolmore Stud Stakes belong to Sepoy, but only just after he was forced into a battle all the way to the line.

Sepoy was tipped by many to romp home in this event however there was a good deal of confidence among his rivals that they had a chance to strike.

He has been up for a while and more importantly he was back to the straight track where many feel he is vulnerable.

At the end of the day they were probably right but his sheer class advantage was too much and he hit the post first, narrowly ahead of Foxwedge.

Foxwedge was a gallant second and with a mere 25m more metres he would have definitely been in front but unfortunately for connections, once again he found one better.

Satin Shoes held on for third place in a great effort by her after doing a lot of the early work out in front.

The big disappointment was probably Bear Hero which dropped out a long last after never looking likely.

Zamorar also ran on well, he just missed out to Satin Shoes for third in a photo.

It’s all academic though and the would of’s, should of’s and could of’s count for little as Sepoy reigns supreme.

A good deal of the credit can go to jockey Kerrin McEvoy whose work has gone a long way to getting both Darley short priced favourites up on Derby Day.

He admits he does feel a little bit of the pressure on horses like this but he takes confidence knowing they’re always prepared to succeed.

“You get a little bit nervous because obviously he’s short in the market and winning so well,” he said.

The journey could well be coming to an end for him though with Sepoy an inevitable European prospect for Darley.

“He’s got  fantastic record now, it’d be nice to see him in Australia for a couple more runs before he goes overseas,” he said.

For Snowden it’s another big achievement and you can tell he’s  super proud of his colt.

“He’s a great horse, he’s been up a long time, although the margin was small the effort was huge,” he said.

For those hoping this might lead to a Black Caviar matchup though think again, it’s the paddock for Sepoy until 2012.

“He’s still a baby and got a lot of growing up to do,” Snowden said.

“He’s just not ready physically or mentally to take on a champion yet.”

Sepoy will probably have a run or two during the Sydney autumn before boarding a flight to the UK for the Ascot Gold Cup carnival.

2011 Coolmore Stud Stakes Results