Sir Lincoln lead all the way taking out the Trillian Trust Auckland Cup
The 2011/12 Grand Circuit season was filled with some memorable moments but, maybe the best was saved for last after Sir Lincoln crushed his rivals winning the Gr.1 $NZ250,000 Trillian Trust Auckland Cup at Alexandra Park (Friday).
The victory for Sir Lincoln was vital for a number of reasons; the striking stallion boosted his worth as a future stud while he gained even more respect at the ultimate level of harness racing.
His recent form was superb highlighted by recent victories in the Summer Cup at Addington and last week's lead-up, the City of Auckland FFA but Terror To Love started as the race favourite with many still doubting Sir Lincoln to run out a strong staying trip at the highest grade.
The Mach Three entire was rifled off the gate and led comfortably for Maurice McKendry with New Zealand Cup winner Terror To Love opting for the trail.
McKendry never backed off at any stage, allowing the bold striding stallion to cruise at a very high speed, Gold Ace made an early move followed by giant gelding Franco Emirate.
Entering the back straight on the final occasion, Sir Lincoln increased the pressure and left his rivals chasing.
Sir Lincoln kicked strongly at the top of the stretch and fought off all challengers to win the Cup decisively and take home the lion's share of the prizemoney.
The winning time was 3;19.5 with the mile rate posted in 1;58.9.
The final half was covered in 55.8 seconds while the final quarter was timed in 27.1 seconds.
Sir Lincoln scored officially by 3/4 of a length with a further 1 1/2 back to third.
The victory provided champion driver Maurice McKendry with his maiden success in the Cup while trainer Ray Green was justifiably proud of his star pacer.
“It’s great to finally win this race, I’ve been close on a few occasions now but to win with this horse and his connections is very satisfying.” McKendry said.
Owners John Street and Graeme Blackburn have enjoyed considerable success in both the standardbred and thoroughbred codes in the last eighteen months.
Connections are now considering an Australian trip with next month’s Gr.1 $200,000 Len Smith Mile at TABCORP Park, Menangle the target.
“He’s a grand horse, he always has been but I’ve got no doubt he’s only getting better with age and maturity.
“His form in the last six months has been exceptional, he’s relaxed and he’s racing so very well which is making my job a lot easier.
“Heading to Sydney will be a great opportunity, he will love that track and we all know how good he is over the sprint distances.”
The hulking 5yo stallion has now won 18 of his 44 lifetime starts.
Sir Lincoln has now claimed three Gr.1 victories during his career while his earnings exceed $600,000.
