News

Tommy Berry lands Queen of the Turf

19th Apr 2014

Racing Network - Adrian Dunn - Saturday, 19 April 2014

TOMMY Berry devoted his triumph on Diamond Drille in today’s Queen Of The Turf Stakes as the Group 1 his brother Nathan.

Berry blew a kiss to the heavens as the Gai Waterhouse-trained mare posted an upset win in the $1 million race.

“Nathan never go to ride a Group 1 winner - that was his there,” Berry said.

Berry said it was the first time his father Kevin had come to the races on a Saturday since he began riding.

“It is something special. We did this one Nath, you were on it with me brother,” Berry said.

“I can’t explain how it feels. I have to thank Gai and Greg and Donna (Kolivos), they have been supporters of the stable for a long time.

“I have given their horses some shocking rides in the past, but they have kept persisting with me.”

Diamond Drille, a drifter from $26 to $41, scored by a short neck from Gypsy Diamond, $8, which was aided by a brilliant ride from James McDonald, who saved every centimeter after the filly bungled the start.

Red Tracer, a drifter from $3.70 to $4.80, was a half length away third.

Catkins, sensationally backed from $3.60 to $2.70 favorite, faded to finish sixth after seemingly having every chance.

Owner Greg Kolivos described it as a special win for a raft of reasons, none more so than for Tommy Berry.

“What a young man. To see a young man grow up like he has, he is something special,” Kolivos said.

Kolivos congratulated Waterhouse for specifically targeting the $1 million race.

“This mare had a year off, this was always the plan to get her to this race,” Kolivos.

“She has brought her along so perfectly. We are over the moon.”