Destiny’s Kiss claims Wyong Gold Cup

A noted wet-track specialist, ageless stayer Destiny’s Kiss has proven his versatility on a good surface to win the Listed Wyong Gold Cup.

Backing up on Friday from a fourth in the Listed Premier’s Cup at Rosehill last Saturday proved no problem for the Joe Pride-trained nine-year-old.

Destiny’s Kiss, who started his career in 2011, clocked up his 16th win at his 71st start to push his earnings to $1.1 million and reinforce his status as a stable favourite for Pride.

“He’s one of the smallest horses in the stable, but he’s full of courage,” Pride told Sky Thoroughbred Central.

“I didn’t have to think too hard about running this horse today because the way he pulled up Sunday into Monday, you could see he was spot-on.

“He’s brought his best game here today.”

Destiny’s Kiss ($8.50) hugged the rail early in the 2100m-race and was pushed through a gap by Hugh Bowman in the straight.

He ran down the $1.35 favourite Sayed who in turn was nabbed by The Getaway for second with the margins a short neck by a short half head.

“He’s been a great horse for so long, he thoroughly deserves it,” Bowman said.

Bjorn Baker trained the quinella in the Listed Mona Lisa Stakes (1350m) when $3.20 favourite Lubiton led Imposing Lass ($5) home by three-quarters of a length.

Lubiton assumed command at the top of the straight after Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained stablemates Sweet Redemption and Slumber Party dropped off after setting the pace.

“The way the race panned out probably helped. They’re both horses that can both go over further later,” Baker said.

“They were able to put themselves there. They’ve got a bomb-proof racing pattern that worked out beautifully.”

Hetty Heights ($7) finished strongly out wide to fill the minor placing, a half-head behind Imposing Lass.