Racing
League
Rugby
Football
Cricket
Golf
Sport Nation
Olympics
Motorsport
Netball
Combat Sports
Basketball
Other Sports
FWC: POR vs ESP live on SN ExtraBonnard bound for Riccarton after Waverley win
Sport Nation • July 6th, 2026 2:49 pm
Bonnard won for the fourth time in five races and will likely head to the Gr.3 Winter Cup at Riccarton on August 1st | Photo: Race Images
Bonnard stamped himself as a genuine Winter Cup contender with an emphatic victory in the feature race at Waverley on Saturday, continuing a remarkable campaign for Cambridge trainer Shane Crawford.
Speaking with Sam Ackerman and Israel Dagg this morning on Sport Nation while reviewing the weekend's action, Trackside commentator Justin Evans said Bonnard had made rapid progress through the grades.
“He’s come such a long way in a very quick amount of time,” Evans said. “He’s now won four of five this prep. That’s not easy to do.”
Ridden by regular partner Amber Riddell, Bonnard settled just off the speed before taking control around the turn and putting the race away in impressive fashion. Evans praised the ride, noting Riddell’s understanding of the horse had been crucial.
“A lovely ride from Amber on Saturday,” Evans said.
Bonnard began the preparation as a Rating 65 galloper but has now claimed his first open handicap win. His next major aim is the Gr.3 Winter Cup at Riccarton on Saturday August 1st - the first Group race of the new season.
The other standout moment at Waverley came through Great Escape, who delivered an emotional win for part-owner Rosie Fell. The mare was ridden by Rosie’s sister, Kelly Myers, adding extra significance to the result.
Evans described it as “the feel-good win of the weekend,” highlighting Rosie’s resilience after a serious trials fall several years ago ended her riding career.
“I know Kelly was very keen to ride that home for her sister Rosie,” Evans said.
Great Escape had been costly for punters after a string of placings, but the addition of blinkers appeared to sharpen her up.
“Thankfully on Saturday she did the job,” Evans said. “I think she’ll have more in store.”
For both Bonnard and Great Escape, Big Saturday racing at Waverley produced special stories and the potential for more to come.
Listen to the full interview:
