Returning to the track in exceptional form this time in, talented seven-year-old Mr Chard has completed an exceptional final straight sprint to win the 2014 Listed Rowley Mile (1600m) at Hawkesbury this afternoon.

Mr Chard has taken out the 2014 Listed Rowley Mile. Photo: Taron Clarke

Jumping from the gates well, Mr Chard settled in ideal position on the heels of early leaders Travolta and Tougher Than Ever, who dictated a noticeably quick tempo over the back straight and rounding the bend.

Finding a clear racing line upon reaching the final straight, the Al Samer entire fell behind Tougher Than Ever with 200m left to race, however kicked well and maintained a strong-enough sprint to find the line half a length in the clear of Chris Waller’s entrant; La Amistad running on for third.

Understandably pleased with his performance in the 2014 Rowley Mile, trainer Tony McEvoy outlined the Group 3 Cameron Handicap (1500m) in Newcastle on September 17^th as the next point of call for Mr Chard.

“He was incredibly brave, the horse,” McEvoy said immediately after the Rowley Mile.

“I think the feather in that cap goes to Kerrin (McEvoy); it’s really such a help when you have these high class riders ride them and he obviously just saved something for that last bit, which you need to do.

“I must say I thought the horse was beaten and he rallied hard. Full credit to the horse, he’s made a big comeback from severe injuries and full credit to the owners for persevering.

“I think I’ll go to the Cameron at Newcastle – It’s 1500m and a very good race and I think that will be his next run.”

Jockey Kerrin McEvoy delivered a typically brilliant ride on Mr Chard in the 2014 Rowley Mile, and was quick to lay the praise on the form and class of his veteran partner.

“He’s obviously a smart horse and only a new resident of Tony’s yard but he’s been running well,” McEvoy said after dismounting.

“I was going back through his form this morning and he’s a four-length beaten horse behind Green Moon and horses of that calibre.

“I was confident enough he was going to run well today off that good run behind Tiger Tees (Group 3 Aurie’s Star Handicap) and Tony was happy with him.

“I thought Timmy Clark (Tougher Than Ever) had me on toast at the furlong and thank god for the extended straight here at Hawkesbury now because he needed that last furlong.

“There’s a race for him during the carnival whether it’s in Sydney or Melbourne – he’s an older horse now but he’s competitive in good races.”

Punters who backed Mr Chard to win the 2014 Rowley Mile and had signed up for a Ladbrokes Card will already be able to take advantage of their winnings at $6 odds!

2014 Rowley Mile Results