Skyhook wins Golden Eagle as Sheza Alibi struggles for room
A photo finish separated Skyhook and Decorum at Randwick, while trainer Peter Moody confirmed Sheza Alibi would be spelled until autumn.
Skyhook claimed Randwick’s Group 1 Golden Eagle over 1500m after a photo finish decided the contest with Decorum. Favourite Sheza Alibi was unable to find space to challenge, while Beiwacht finished third.
Luke Nolen repeatedly sought a path to the outside for Sheza Alibi, who was positioned towards the rear of the field. With no room available, the mare remained out of contention as the leading pair broke clear in the straight.
Trainer Peter Moody confirmed Sheza Alibi would now be spelled until autumn. He said she had travelled well during the race, but gaps had not appeared as they had in other races.
Earlier on the Randwick card, Tyler Schiller rode Stand My Ground to a first-up victory in the A$500,000 Four Pillars Midway over 1500m. Cuban Cigar’s late challenge fell a half head short, with Magical Moments third, just over two lengths behind.
Trainer Marc Chevalier said Stand My Ground’s preparation had been focused on the Four Pillars for six months, following her unplaced Australian Oaks run in April. He said he was already considering the Five Diamonds in 2027, with possible runs beforehand.
