Liberty’s Gem wins 2014 Sir Ernest Lee-Steere Classic Group 3 $150,000 at Ascot (WA) 3yo, 1400m.
Liberty's Gem was smartly away from his good barrier (3) and went immediately to the front, as expected. He then settled well, steading the pace (first 800m 48.51) before dashing clear on turning for home. He then fought back gamely to score by half a length, his third win in his only four starts.
The favourite Outlaw Pete was fourth, one out and one back. He improved (three wide) from the 700m, challenged at the 200m and then battled on in good style for second.
Hobart Jones raced in sixth place, got a nice rails run from the 700m, going through to second on turning for home. He then fought on well for a close-up third.
The filly Prete A Partir was midfield, got between runners at the 200m and battled on very well for fourth, beaten two lengths.
