Group 1 win number three for Sunlight

Zoustar's three-year-old daughter Sunlight once again confirmed her superstar status with a third Group 1 win in the Keogh Homes William Reid Stakes at Moonee Valley on Friday.

Despite breaking from a wide barrier, Sunlight soon adopted her customary position in front and, after her jockey got a breather into her at halfway, she never looked like being caught. Spright finished fast for second but Sunlight won a shade cosily.

Back in Sunlight's saddle was regular rider Luke Currie, who had to miss out on her recent win in the Newmarket Handicap, when a light weight meant Barend Vorster took the mount.

Currie said: "I suppose they need to have the X-factor to be as good as what she is and she's definitely got it."

Sunlight's trainer Tony McEvoy again expressed his admiration for the filly, saying: "I'm in awe of her, what a star, she just rises to the occasion all the time.

"She loves the pressure of these races, this elite-level racing, and I'm so proud of her.

"There's so much more to come with her, she could just be one of the best of the best.

Sunlight won by three-quarters of a length in 1:09.77. She became the first horse since Black Caviar to win both the Newmarket Handicap and William Reid, the last Group 1 of the season in Victoria.

Unfortunately the race had a tragic postcript as Group 1 winner Voodoo Lad suffered a serious leg injury, which caused his jockey Ben Melham to suffer a suspected broken wrist.

Sunlight's owners include Qatar Bloodstock Ltd. A yearling half-brother to Sunlight by recently-deceased sire Sebring is due to sell at the upcoming Inglis Easter Sale.

Photo: @TheValley