Champion Thoroughbreds | Champion Thoroughbreds News 64479 Two State Wednesday Double

Pictured: Regeneration winning at Caulfield on Thursday. Credit: Racing Photos 

It was a case of double delight for the Champion silks, with winners posted at both Doomben and Caulfield on Wednesday.

At Doomben, Hell To Pay returned to the winner’s stall in determined fashion, claiming a Colts & Geldings Class 3 over 1350 metres and bringing up his second victory of the preparation. Luckless from a tricky draw at his previous outing, the four-year-old son of Hellbent turned his fortunes around under the guidance of 2kg claiming apprentice Jace McMurray for trainer Tony Gollan.

Jumping cleanly from barrier two, McMurray settled midfield off a genuine tempo before easing into clear running on straightening. Once presented, Hell To Pay responded strongly, letting down with purpose to edge out his rivals in a tight finish, scoring by 0.22 lengths under the steadier of 60kg.

The win takes his record to four victories from 18 starts, with prizemoney now climbing to $339,000. Given his consistency this campaign, there appears little doubt there are further wins in store.

Well done to his owners Yarraman Park Stud, Kingsport Investments, Sedgewyn, Mr D J Hines, Mr P Hines, Dunbar Family Racing, Mr J E Forker, Mr P C Barnett, Mr S J Brown, Mr J G Codner, Dream Team, Mrs D L Fisher, Mr T S Fisher, Mr C D Hands and Mr W S Simpson.

Later in the day at Caulfield, Regeneration made a stylish return, taking out a Benchmark 70 over 1000 metres. The progressive three-year-old, a son of King’s Legacy and already a Group 3 placegetter, was expertly handled by Damien Lane for the Anthony and Sam Freedman stable.

Settling towards the rear, Regeneration was allowed to find his rhythm before Lane angled into clear air in the straight. The gelding produced a sharp turn of foot to overhaul his rivals, scoring by half a length despite the trip falling short of his preferred distance.

The performance underlined his upside, with the Freedman team appearing to have him primed for a preparation that could well see him measure up in stronger company.

Congratulations to his owners Byron Rogers and partners Simsy Racing, Mr S Chappell, Mr H De Jong, Mr C A Henschke, Dr C Rogers, Mr A E N Curtis and Lucky Six Racing.