Etah James added the Gr.1 Sydney Cup (3200m) to her record with a strong staying performance at Randwick.
With the favourite Young Rascal appearing not to stay the trip on heavy ground, Etah James held out The Chosen One in a driving finish to score by a head for training partnership Ciaron Maher and David Eustace.
With COVID-19 restrictions still in place Maher had to watch the races from Caulfield but the trainer said he was “extremely proud” of the stable’s results on Day Two of The Championships.
“I’ve got to make special mention of my (assistant trainer and Sydney stable representative) Annabel Neasham, she sensational job with Etah James,’’ Maher said.
“Given the coronavirus restrictions, normally I’m up in Sydney twice a week but I haven’t been able to do that although I do speak to Annabel probably 25 times a day.
“We decided to give Etah James a barrier trial to keep her up to the mark and we felt the mare was a solid, probably each way, chance.
“But she is a genuine two-miler and when they get down to those weights over trips like that, anything is possible.
“Glen (Boss) is in such elite form, he gave her a peach of a ride and it came down to a head margin.’’
Etah James advanced her record to eight wins from 30 starts and although a seven-year-old, Maher said he hopes Etah James can remain in training next season and potentially be aimed at a Melbourne Cup.
“Full credit to Mark (Lupton) and his operation because the mare came to us in great order,’’ Maher said.
“I’m not sure what the catalyst was to send the mare to us but we are very appreciative he chose us.
“I spoke to Mark briefly so to get a win like that for an owner-breeder, there is nothing better.’’