By Julieanne Horsman
Polarisation was the first past the post in the ill-fated Sydney Cup a fortnight ago and this week he came back with one mission – to make it official.
Corey Brown returned for the re-run of the last Group 1 of the season and settled Polarisation at the back of the pack that was chasing runaway leader, Lasqueti Spirit.
“Going past the post the first time I was a tiny bit concerned,” Brown said. “It wasn’t until we got to the 1400m that he really got on the bit and travelled up behind the stablemate.”
By the time they turned for home, Polarisation was at the front. He kicked away and Who Shot The Barman (Blake Shinn) and favourite Big Duke (Glen Boss) gave chase. He was too good though, fending them off to win by a head.
“It’s a big relief and a big thrill to be doing it in these colours, it’s great,” Brown said.
Polarisation is part of Godolphin’s international contingent that travelled to Sydney for The Championships and the rescheduled race meant his support team had to delay their return to the UK.
“It makes it all worthwhile,” Assistant Trainer James Ferguson said.
“I’m absolutely delighted and all credit goes to the team.
“I am just so pleased for Sheikh Mohammed and for Dubai and Godolphin that we’ve been able to come here and win a Group 1.”
The win was equally significant for Corey Brown, who is mounting a comeback in Sydney after riding overseas for close to four years.
It was his second Group 1 victory since returning home and he says it’s an invaluable boost.
“It’s not been easy,” he said.
“There’s the young ones here and I’m getting that little bit older.
“I’ve got my toe into a few big stables but I haven’t got my foot in the door just yet. I’m just going to have to keep muscling to try and get back where I left off.”
As for Polarisation, he will head home now and enjoy a well-earned spell.