Romantic Warrior has taken out this year's Cox Plate, beating Mr Brightside in a photo finish to claim the coveted $5 million event on Saturday afternoon.
The five-year-old galloper from the Danny Shum stable came out on top in the 2040m race in front of a strong crowd in Melbourne, with jockey James McDonald in the saddle.
"I've been singing his praises about how much he's improved," McDonald said of the pre-race favourite.
McDonald became the first jockey since Michael Clarke in 1990 to win back-to-back Cox Plates with the ride.
"Credit to Peter and Danny - it takes a hell of a lot of balls to come out of Hong Kong with all the prize money...but they came here and showcased their boy," McDonald said.
The Hong Kong champion finished fourth in the G1 Turnbull Stakes in his first-up run in Australia earlier this month but showed much improved form on the big day to hold off Mr Brightide and Alligator Blood for a thrilling win.
"I reckon he's got more to come too," McDonald added.
"He's been bubbling away and made a significant amount of improvement...He loves the bloody Valley!"
WHAT A RACE!
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) October 28, 2023
ROMANTIC WARRIOR WINS THE COX PLATE FOR HONG KONG! 🇭🇰 pic.twitter.com/9Tw19ljGMN
Romantic Warrior entered the race at $3.90, per Dabble.
Who won the Cox Plate?
Romantic Warrior won this year's $5 million Cox Plate, finishing ahead of Mr Brightside and Alligator Blood.
The winner paid $3.90 with Dabble. Say HEY to the social bet, Download the DABBLE app!
Cox Plate past winners
| 2022 | Anamoe |
| 2021 | State Of Rest |
| 2020 | Sir Dragonet |
| 2019 | Lys Gracieux |
| 2018 | Winx |
| 2017 | Winx |
| 2016 | Winx |
| 2015 | Winx |
| 2014 | Adelaide |
| 2013 | Shamus Award |
