A 1-2-3-4 finish for leading trainer Scot Brunton in the Listed Tasmanian Stakes (1600m) at Hobart on Friday, but it was the outsider of the quartet Lim's Cruiser who returned to the winner's circle for the first time in 163 weeks.
The 9yo son of Casino Prince was a star performer in Singapore, where he won the 2019 Lion City Cup and Kranji Stakes.
He was campaigned in Europe, finishing seventh behind Blue Point in the Group 1 Diamond Jubilee Stakes at Royal Ascot before bowing a tendon when sixth behind Ten Sovereigns in the Group 1 Darley July Cup.
After one and half years of rest, Lim's Cruiser was sent to Brunton, where he had his 8th start.
With Brendon McCoull in the saddle, Lim's Cruiser defeated the odd=on favourite The Inevitable by a neck. The son of Dundeel made a long run from the tail of the field and may have peaked in the final 100m.
It was three-quarters of a length back to Mandela Effect (Turffontein) with Brinktop Lad (Wordsmith in fourth).
Part owner Yasmin Maskiell recounted how the former world traveller ended up in Tasmania.
"There are a lot of people to thank why this horse is here, Maskiell said.
"First and foremost Mick Dittman, a long time friend, who is the manager for Mr Lim, the largest owner in Singapore.
The horse is a multiple Group 1 winner and Singapore Horse Of The Year. He raced in Hong Kong and England, where he, unfortunately, bowed a tendon.
"They tried to rehab him back in Singapore and couldn't get him back to the races.
"Great friends Steve and Bridget Grey they trained him, and they will be absolutely ecstatic watching from New Zealand. They helped us a lot with him. So, between Mick, Mr Lim and Steve and Bridget, we got the opportunity to come here in the beach environment, and there is nothing better for horses to rejuvenate.
"We owe a tremendous thanks to Scott Brunton, Tegan and the team at the beach because they have gone above and beyond to get this result."
Bred by Patinack Farm, Lim's Cruiser was a $17,000 Magic Millions Yearling that was purchased by Mick Dittman for $100,000 from the Heinrich Bloodstock Dispersal at the 2015 Gold Coast National Racehorse Sale.
The son of Casino Prince is the second of three foals left by the unraced Good Journey mare Hope Downs a daughter of the South African champion Battle Maiden (Goldkeeper).
Lim's Cruiser is one of 22 black-type winners for the veteran Casino Prince. The son of Flying Spur continues to provide yeoman service, covering 68 mares at his 14th season at Vinery Stud last spring at a fee of $5,500.
Casino Prince
