Racing: Whobe trumps Tracy

Trainer Mark Kavanagh. Photo / Getty Images

Trainer Mark Kavanagh and owner Lawrence Eales signalled they would again be major players this spring when Whobegotyou beat reigning Horse of the Year Typhoon Tracy in the Dato Tan Chin Nam Stakes at Moonee Valley.

Only a week ago the pair landed the Makybe Diva Stakes with impressive Melbourne Cup hero Shocking who is the favourite for this year's 150th anniversary of the great race.

But Eales revealed after yesterday's Group Two feature that Whobegotyou was his favourite horse.

Now a 5-year-old, the gelding won the 2008 Caulfield Guineas and last year's Yalumba Stakes but failed in the Cox Plate - his only defeat in six races at Moonee Valley.

The chestnut became the fourth multiple winner of the 1600m Dato Tan Chin Nam having won it last year. He emulated Lad Of The Manor (2005-06), Lawman (1981-82) while Shorengro (1968-1970) won the race three times.

"He just excels at this track. He's a better horse this year, I'm pretty happy with him. He's got a bit of improvement in him."

Kavanagh said Whobegotyou would also go for back-to-back wins in the Yalumba Stakes (2000m) at Caulfield on October 9 before heading to the Cox Plate (2040m) at the Valley on October 23.

With Michael Rodd in the saddle, Whobegotyou ($3.10) swept around the field from second last of the eight runners to score by two lengths from Typhoon Tracy ($4) with Shoot Out ($2.70 fav) a length away third.

- AAP