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Super Cash wins 2018 Schweppes Rubiton Stakes Group 2 $200,000 at Caulfield (VIC), 1100m.
Andrew Noblet-trained mare Super Cash resumed to take out her second Rubiton Stakes (Gr 2, 1100m) having been successful in this race last year. She was a bit slow to move but recovered from her good barrier (2) to settle in fourth place on the rails, behind a moderate early tempo and was blocked on turning for home. Craig Williams found a split at the 100m and she then finished quickly and snatched a last-stride win.
Flamberge went to the front, looked likely to be overtaken at the 300m but lifted gamely, only to be caught on the post for the closest of seconds.
Favourite Merchant Navy, resuming after winning the Coolmore Stud Stakes (registered as Ascot Vale Stakes) (Gr 1, 1200m) in November raced in second last place in the eight-horse field, improved (wide with cover) from the 700m, challenged at the 300m and kept fighting well in the sprint home for a sound first up third.
Rich Charm was seventh on the rails, had trouble gaining clear running in the straight before making late ground for (1.4 lengths) fourth in a promising and somewhat unlucky first up effort while Hellbent also ran on nicely for (1.6 lengths) fifth.