Anthony Azzopardi experienced the greatest moment of his training career when Whiskey Riot won a memorable edition of the TAB Melbourne Cup on Friday night.
In a thrilling finish, just a length separated the first four greyhounds over the line as Whiskey Riot drove through to win the $435,000 (£228,000) first prize over the gallant Western Envoy, with track record holder and favourite Hooked On Scotch storming home for third.
For owner Sandra Camden-Bermingham and her husband Colin, the win continues a remarkable run of success. Just over 12 months earlier, Whiskey Riot’s half-sister Mystic Riot took out the TAB Million Dollar Chase and their dam Ready To Riot’s progeny now combing to win over $2m in prize money.
“We are over the moon! My husband and I are thrilled beyond belief, this is a dream come true. We’re so excited, it’s really amazing we just couldn’t be happier,” said Sandra.
“When that number showed up we were screaming like crazy people. We’re so happy and so thrilled to be here.”
The win was the 17th of Whiskey Riot’s career and took his prize money beyond $619,000.
Race favourite and track record holder Hooked On Scotch flew home for third beaten half a length, while ranked outside Oakvale Beauty was the unlucky runner in the race finishing fourth just a length from the winner.
Later in the night, Tornado Tears reminded everyone why he’s regarded one of the greatest stayers of all time by winning his fifth group 1 title (and third at Sandown Park) in the Bold Trease, while Sennachie proved to fast for Feral Franky in the first Cup Night Speed Star match race.
