Racing: Lucrative payday for Sir Owen Glenn

Trainer David Hayes and owner Sir Owen Glenn celebrated with jockey Craig Williams following Criterion's win. Photo / Getty Images

Sir Owen Glenn pocketed more than $2 million when his horse Criterion whipped rivals in the Longines Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Sydney over the weekend.

The 4-year-old surged to the biggest win in his career to date, gaining a clear advantage over the rest of the field in a matter of strides.

He was never in danger of defeat, even as a British horse made a late burst for the lead in the race at Royal Randwick on Saturday.

Sir Owen shared the $2.4 million first prize with Criterion's trainer David Hayes (5 per cent share) and jockey Craig Williams (5 per cent).

Sir Owen also won a trophy worth $49,250. Hayes and Williams, too, won a trophy each, valued at $18,250.

It is understood Criterion's strapper, the person who leads the horse around before and after each race, would also get a small cut.

It was possible Sir Owen would give his jockey a cash bonus, known as a sling in horse racing circles and usually given after a significant win.

Hayes previously won the Queen Elizabeth in 1995 with Jeune.

He took over training Criterion just six months ago.

He gave Williams some simple advice before the race.

"He told me 'Craig, just ride him like a good horse," Williams said.

Criterion's next stop will be Hong Kong where he will contest the Queen Elizabeth II Cup on April 26. A Royal Ascot start was also planned.

The horse was bred at Sir Owen's Blandford Lodge in Matamata.

- additional reporting AAP