Rising apprentice jockey Roger Hewitt maintained his impressive performance, securing his 24th win of the season with a skilful ride on Joseph Thomas-trained Bin Laden in the third race on Saturday, December 16, 2023.
Bin Laden's victory occurred in a three-year-old and up Optional Claiming ($400,000-$300,000) event featuring native-bred five-year-olds and up (non-winners of three) and six-year-olds (non-winners of four) over one mile (1,600m).
As the gates opened, Bin Laden held the fourth position behind Bigmanbiden (Ramon Nepare), Sunshine Cat (Javaniel Patterson), and Quanna (Jordan Barrett).
Hewitt encouraged his mount near the seven-furlong (1,400m) pole, and Bin Laden advanced to second place, following Bigmanbiden down the backstretch.
Approaching the half-mile (800m) turn, Hewitt eased Bin Laden's pace, allowing Sunshine Cat to overtake in pursuit of Bigmanbiden, who appeared strong in the lead.
However, as Bigmanbiden started to lose momentum in deep stretch, Bin Laden accelerated and raced victoriously to finish 2 3/4 lengths ahead. Sunshine Cat came second and Bigmanbiden third. The final time was 1:45.0 (24.2 x 48.2 x 1:13.4).
