A well timed ride by Beau Mertens saw Mr Exclusive finally break through for that elusive maiden metropolitan win on the 24th of April. He certainly put the writing on the wall first up in a similar 1600m at Caulfield three weeks prior, before fronting up in the BM84 1600m to win by a short margin on the line. He had a beautiful run throughout and certainly looked like he was going to win by a couple of lengths at the 150m, before tiring to just hold on.
A very special win for a great bunch of connections who have certainly enjoyed a rollercoaster ride with this horse. Having shown well above average ability from an early 2yo, “Mitch” has certainly gone about winning a metro race the long way. A crack at the 2018 Group 1 Caulfield Guineas where he finished a credible 7th was closely followed by three second placings at Flemington in a row, in three year old handicap races. Later that preparation over the Spring, he ran placings behind Harbour Views, and Ranier, before being nosed out to run second in the Group 3 Sandown Stakes. Shortly after this preparation, he lost his way, requiring a throat operation and a lengthy spell before a short preparation over the late Spring of 2020 was cut short due to the firm tracks. An exceptional training performance to have him ready to go on the softer tracks of the late Autumn.
Mr Exclusive is a home bred of Scott and Linda Browns, who have bred two city winners from the farm, with this being the first Saturday metropolitan winner.
Mr Exclusive ridden by Beau Mertens wins the Dexion Victoria Handicap at Caulfield Racecourse on April 24, 2021 in Caulfield, Australia. (Reg Ryan/Racing Photos)
Beau Mertens returns to the mounting yard on Mr Exclusive after winning the Dexion Victoria Handicap , at Caulfield Racecourse on April 24, 2021 in Caulfield, Australia.(Reg Ryan/Racing Photos)
Mr Exclusive ridden by Beau Mertens wins the Dexion Victoria Handicap at Caulfield Racecourse on April 24, 2021 in Caulfield, Australia. (Reg Ryan/Racing Photos)