Capital Gain wins 2017 J.J. Atkins Group 1 $600,000 at Doomben (QLD), 1600m.

Capital Gain followed his encouraging fifth in the BRC Sires’ Produce Stakes (Gr 2, 1400m) at Eagle Farm on 27 May to take out this Group One race, advancing to 1600m at his eighth race start. He settled back in 11th place in the 14-horse field, behind a good pace, before improving (deep) nearing the home turn. He then ran on strongly, hit the front at the 100m and went on to win well.

New Zealand-bred filly Aloisia staged a smart effort. Having only her fourth start and her second since resuming in Australia for new trainer Ciaron Maher, she settled in ninth place (on the rails), managed to angle into clear running on passing the 200m and challenged at the 50m. She then fought well for a very good second.

Taking Aim raced in eighth place, improved (wide out) coming to the home turn, was in a challenging position at the 200m and kept battling on in good style for third.

Mishani Bullitt raced in sixth place, was held up on turning for home and ran on well when clear for a lateclosing (1.3 lengths) fourth while the favourite Melody Belle worked from barrier nine to race outside the leader, was under pressure on straightening before weakening to finish (3 lengths) tenth.