Regal Ripper Unleashes Stunning Burst to Win at Morphettville

Regal Ripper Charges From Last to First at Morphettville

Regal Ripper has confirmed his love affair with Morphettville, producing a powerful last-to-first run to win the Aceit Transport Solutions Handicap (1522m) on Saturday.

Trained by Philip and Tommy Stokes and ridden by Harry Grace, the gelding carried 58.5kg from barrier 9 to post his third win from five starts at the track.

Back in work after a 21-day break, Regal Ripper settled near the tail of the field as a genuine tempo developed up front.

Affaire Vue, chasing a hat-trick, crossed from her wide draw to lead, while race favourite Bargain Boy and Blackjack both pressed forward. Blackjack was forced to do a lot of work three-wide early.

The field stayed compact down the back. Grace was content to wait while the leaders took each other on.

The race opened up at the 300m.

Traffic built along the inside, and Gruelling, who had travelled sweetly behind the speed, was shut out when a gap between the leaders closed.

Regal Ripper was clear of the trouble and building momentum, and when Grace asked for an effort he responded with a sharp burst of speed.

He collared Bargain Boy and Affaire Vue as the pair fought it out, hit the front 50m from the line and went clear to win comfortably.

I Am Ralph (Brook King) ran on late out wide for second for trainer Sarah Rutton.

Bargain Boy, a stablemate of the winner, held on for third under Caitlyn Jones, who was making a welcome return to race riding.

Affaire Vue weakened out of the placings after doing it tough in front.

The result rounded out a strong day for the Stokes stable and rewarded a patient, well-judged ride from Grace.

He gave his mount every chance to finish off the race and found clear running at the crucial moment.

Regal Ripper’s three career wins have all now come at Morphettville, and he is clearly at home at the headquarters track.

Connections will assess how he pulls up before mapping out his next target.

You can watch Regal Ripper’s win at Morphettville here.