HEART OF A CHAMPION: Regal Vanguard Digs Deep for Thrilling Moe Victory

Our tough three-year-old gelding Regal Vanguard ($7.50) announced himself as a horse with a huge heart at Moe on Tuesday, digging deep under pressure to record a thrilling, hard-fought victory in the Ladbrokes Mega Multi Maiden Plate (1000m).

Under an ice-cool ride from veteran hoop Brad Rawiller, the promising son of Exceedance put four runs of consistent form together to notch a thoroughly deserved breakthrough win on a testing Heavy 9 surface.

Showing brilliant race craft from barrier five, Regal Vanguard settled beautifully off a hot early tempo set by rival frontrunners.

Rather than engaging in a taxing mid-race duel, Rawiller allowed his mount to stalk the leaders comfortably in fourth, soaking up the wet conditions just off the fence.

Turning for home, Regal Vanguard responded instantly when called upon, peeling off heels at the 200-meter mark to launch a formidable challenge.

Displaying sheer grit and determination down the straight, the tough gelding took the lead and refused to yield, fending off all late challengers in a grandstand finish to score by a short head in a time of 1:03.49.

Speaking post-race, trainer John McArdle praised the gelding’s resilience and ability to handle testing conditions, noting that he bounced back brilliantly after a tough run at Wangaratta and handled the wet track like a seasoned professional.

John McArdle added that while the promising three-year-old is still maturing physically, his genuine attitude will see him continue to progress as a four-year-old following a brief, well-earned break.

Jockey Brad Rawiller echoed those sentiments, declaring Regal Vanguard an absolute trier with a massive motor, praising his ability to stalk a hot speed and fight all the way to the line.

The victory marks an exciting milestone for connections, with the talented gelding proving he possesses both the tactical speed and raw courage required to win under pressure.

With a maiden victory now locked away, Regal Vanguard looks every bit a horse on the rise, promising plenty more thrills for his ownership team as he continues to physical mature into an even finer racehorse next preparation.

You can watch Regal Vanguard’s win at Moe here.