The Lindsay Park trained Keen Array found himself back in the winner’s stall with his victory in the Group 2 $200,000 Gilgai Stakes (1200m) at Flemington today.

Keen Array, above in blue and green colours, scored a nose win in the Gilgai Stakes at Flemington. Photo by Ultimate Racing Photos.

Winning jockey Mark Zahra had Keen Array ($8) on the pace from the outset and was able to hold on to score a nose win over the Queensland sprinter Sold For Song ($20) with third placegetter Malibu Style ($26) also close up in a blanket finish.

The $2.80 favourite Spieth was always well back in the field and never threatened to finish eighth.

Co-trainer Tom Dabernig, who trains in partnership with David and Ben Hayes, said that Keen Array has taken a long time to regain his best form and now might find himself tackling Group 1 company again.

“I think it has just taken a little bit to get him fit,” Dabernig said.

“He has had a long time off and I must admit that last start at Caulfield we were a little bit disappointed. He was up on the pace and got out sprinted and was only even into the line.”

“But today he sat forward, there looked to be a lack of speed and he sort of controlled the race and they couldn’t get passed him.”

“Full credit to the horse. Always a horse that has been a high talent and it is great to see back in winning form.”

“It is a good time of year to have him in form and this opens up plenty of options for him for sure.”

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2017 Gilgai Stakes Results & Finishing Order

Flemington Race 4 – 07/10/2017