Journalists Wandering Eyes Posted October 28, 2023 Journalists Share Posted October 28, 2023 Archo Nacho (blue) ridden by Mark Zahra wins the Red Anchor Stakes at Moonee Valley. (Photo by Brett Holburt/Racing Photos) Mark Zahra has given Archo Nacho (+160) a perfect ride from the box seat in the Group 3 Red Anchor Stakes to bring up his fourth winning ride on Cox Plate Day at Moonee Valley. The Matt Laurie-trained galloper wasn’t at his best at his last start down the Flemington straight, but he returned to winning ways in the Red Anchor, showing a liking for the tight, turning Valley track. After jumping from barrier two, Zahra got the son of Sioux Nation to settle in the box seat behind Don’t Hope Do (+2500) and Snippety Legend (+1300), but once the gap appeared between them, the race favourite pushed through and took the lead. The winner had to fight off the challenge of Maharba (+220) in the final 200m, but he proved a little too good in the final 100m, pulling clear to record a half-length victory in the final race on Cox Plate Day. 2023 Red Anchor Stakes Replay – Archo Nacho | T: Matt Laurie | J: Mark Zahra Matt Laurie claimed his first winner of Cox Plate Day and he spoke post-race. “I was a little bit worried there,” Laurie said. “They looked to drop anchor and we were waiting on a run. “He has a great turn-of-foot and it is good to see Archo back. “I had his half-brother. He showed a bit of pace, didn’t eventuate. “I just happened to find this bloke at the weanling sale and I bought him for $10,000. “So we threw him in a paddock and this is where we’re at. It’s a good story.” Mark Zahra claimed riding honours on Cox Plate Day, riding four winners for the day. “I had a very economical run. I spent nothing,” Zahra said of his ride on Archo Nacho. “Just needed to squeeze through the gap at the right time. “He’s a pretty talented horse, this guy, if you take out his last run and he was strong at the end. “I wouldn’t go to a Coolmore. You’ve got to back up then. “I know the money is great but I think he just finds his way to another 1200-metre race.” More racing news View the full article Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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