Trainer Blasts Joao Moreira for Second-Place Finish
A jockey known as 'Magic Man' is facing heavy criticism from trainer Wayne Hawkes for his ride in the Melbourne Cup. Joao Moreira finished second on 17-2 Soulcombe, earning over £620,000 for connections in the prestigious race.
Controversy Surrounds Soulcombe's Performance
Many are questioning whether Soulcombe could have won the Cup if not for a slow start. The horse typically struggles out of the gates but made an impressive comeback, finishing just two lengths behind the 7-1 winner, Without A Fight.
Trainer Unhappy with Moreira's Performance
Hawkes expressed his dissatisfaction with Moreira's ride, stating that he will never forget this race. The trainer believed that Soulcombe should have won by a significant margin.
Defending the Jockey
Despite the criticism, one of Soulcombe's co-owners, Craig Sneesby, came to Moreira's defense. Sneesby acknowledged the challenges faced by jockeys in navigating the race, praising Moreira's efforts to find a gap. He also emphasized Soulcombe's potential for future success in the Melbourne Cup.
Looking Ahead
Soulcombe's strong performance has solidified his credentials for the Melbourne Cup, and Sneesby believes the horse will return next year with a lighter weight. Despite falling short of victory, coming in second is still considered a remarkable achievement.
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