Racing to Win claims Stakes

Racing to Win has made light of his poor first-up record, producing a tough performance on a heavy track to win the G2 Schweppes Warwick Stakes (1400m) at Warwick Farm on Saturday afternoon.

The outstanding grey hasn't raced since taking out the G1 All Aged Stakes (1400m) to finish off his autumn campaign but was still a $1.55 favourite to claim this race.

And, despite a history of struggling in fresh runs, Racing to Win took the lead on the straight before fighting off Sydney mare Gallant Tess to claim the narrow win for trainer John O'Shea.

Jockey Hugh Bowman kept Racing to Win behind the pace but the champion miler stepped up a gear near the turn, claiming victory in what O'Shea described as a 'workmanlike' performance.

"Considering he's a bit new, his condition probably gave 100 metres out but his heart carried him the rest of the way," O'Shea told racenet.

"He had them covered a long way from home."

"He's only had the one trial a month ago, and today's 1400m on a wet track first-up, so it's no load, in a weight-for-age at 59.5kg so he's done a good job."

Gallant Tess paid $7.00 for second while the unfavoured Danzippo ($31.00) was a further four and a quarter lengths behind in third.