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BRISBANE - Trainer Robbie Heathcote finally delivered on a promise made to Malta's connections when the former Sydneysider won the Listed Recognition Stakes at Eagle Farm on Saturday.
Malta, who was ridden by Stathi Katsidis, stormed home to down Rash Promise by three-quarters of a length with Picablu a further 2 1/2 lengths away third.
Heathcote, who has had a roller coaster season, told Malta's owners at the start of his current campaign that this would be the seven-year-old's best season.
Until Saturday's 1600m stakes race, Heathcote's promise looked like going unfulfilled.
"When he came back from his spell he was full of enthusiasm," Heathcote said. "His legs were sound and he was bouncing on the tracks.
"I told the owners when he came back into work that this would be his best season yet and I haven't changed my mind."
Heathcote wasn't enjoying the best of form a few weeks ago, after a great start to the season, but has rebounded.
"Last month was a bit frustrating but we're on song again now," Heathcote said.
"This was my fourth winner for the week. I had a double at Ipswich and I trained a winner at Doomben."
Heathcote was always confident Malta could win despite the gelding's previous defeat when eighth to Magic Marvo in the Listed Brisbane Hcp (1600m) at Eagle Farm last month.
"Brad Stewart rode him that day and left his whip behind in the barriers," Heathcote said.
"He ran the entire race without being hit with the stick and wasn't beaten that far. It was an accident what Brad did and I don't hold anything against him."
Malta, who was formerly trained in Sydney by Bart Cummings, joined Heathcote's stable in January last year after winning five times for the legendary trainer.
Regarded by Heathcote as a 1600m specialist, Malta earned his first Listed win in the Members Cup (1600m) at Eagle Farm in March.
Heathcote now plans to chase another Listed victory with Malta in the Bernborough Hcp (1615m) at Doomben on January 6.
Trainer Shawn Dwyer will back Rash Promise up over 2000m at Doomben on Saturday.
- AAP
