Tarka Claims Upset Stan Fox Stakes Win
Tarka won the Stan Fox Stakes in a photo finish. Photo: Steve Hart

Tarka Claims Upset Stan Fox Stakes Win

Tarka has pulled off a huge upset by beating an outstanding field to the line in this afternoon’s Group 2 Stan Fox Stakes (1500m) at Rosehill Gardens.

It was all about resuming Group 1 winner The Autumn Sun in the lead up to the Stan Fox Stakes, but Tarka did his chances of an upset no harm when he jumped well and found a nice position in transit just behind the early leaders.

James McDonald began to work the three-year-old into the race as the field turned for home and was offered clear running 300m from the post; immediately locking in a fierce sprint battle with Dealmaker.

Going stride for stride with the Chris Waller-trained colt, Tarka dropped his nose at the perfect moment to secure the biggest win of his career to date in a photo.

The Autumn Sun worked home well to finish third when he was finally offered clear running, while Irukandji boxed on well in arguably the worst part of the track to finish fourth.

McDonald delivered a perfectly-timed ride aboard Tarka this afternoon and believes that the horse has all the makings of a Derby winner.

“I couldn’t believe that everyone gave this horse none, but I said to my manager that it’s really hard for a three-year-old to win with 61kgs and he had so much improvement,” McDonald said after winning the Stan Fox Stakes.

“He’s toughed it out and I think he could be a real Derby horse – he’s got so much untapped potential and he’s got more improvement.

“He’s the ultimate professional, he sits back and he’s got a big turn of foot, but you do have to ask for it.”

Tarka is currently available at early 2018 Victoria Derby odds of $26 here at Neds.