Under darkening skies at Sandown, the Richard Laming-trained Payroll was finally rewarded for her consistency when edging out the Charlie Appleby-trained visitor Kidmenever in the Group III Eclipse Stakes.
Since winning a Listed race at Doomben back in June, the 5yo daughter of Not A Single Doubt has finished second in the Listed Munn Quality at Doomben, third in the Group II Blazer Stakes at Flemington and at her most recent start seven days previously was second in the Group II Matriarch Stakes at Flemington.
Three wide with cover under Damian Oliver, Payroll came with a well-timed finish to defeat Kidmenever by a short half-head with Jacquinot Bay another three-quarter of a length away third.
"We are over the moon, she deserved the win," stable representative Adrian McGregor said.
"Richie has been more than happy with her the whole prep and it's good to see her get over the line.
"It was such a shame she did not get a run in the Myer as Richard was pretty confident with her in that race but today is something.
McGregor said the Pakenham Cup may come under consideration but her main goal will come at the Magic Millions race day in January.
Purchased by her trainer for $80,000 from the Macquarie Stud draft at the 2014 Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, Payroll advances her record to 4 wins, 4 seconds and 4 thirds from 22 starts with earnings of $449,650.
Her record of consistency is matched by year younger half-brother Arbeitsam (Snitzel) whose honesty was rewarded when winning the Listed Rowley Mile at Hawkesbury on August 24.
Which makes it more disappointing that their dam Workhard (Red Ransom) has had a troubled history since foaling Arbeitsam. She has missed three times and slipped once.
From the family of dual Group I winner Bawalaksana and multiple Group III winner Damaschino, Workhard was covered by Scissor Kick last spring.
