Land Legend caused a major upset in the Might And Power Stakes, defeating odds-on favourite Sheza Alibi by a short head in a course-record 2:00.30 over 2000m. The decisive factor was Ethan Brown’s superb front-running ride, controlling the race from barrier one and ensuring Land Legend had every opportunity to use his staying strength. A proven stayer, he maintained a strong gallop throughout and managed to hang on when challenged late. Ethan Brown’s ride was a pure stroke of genius!
Sheza Alibi settled fourth behind Birdman but didn’t receive the expected tow into the race, forcing Luke Nolen to make his own move. She closed strongly but couldn’t quite bridge the gap, with the genuine tempo and Land Legend’s stamina proving decisive. Sheza Alibi still produced an outstanding performance, but the result highlighted how tactical execution and race shape can overcome a significant class difference. No runner would be able to outsprint her so the best tactic is establish a big lead and hang on!
So how did Land Legend do it? Here are a few key takeaways from the race and his form profile:
- He set an incredibly fast tempo – 9 lengths above standard for this class to the 600m
- Reeled off seven straight furlongs below 12 seconds – from the 1800m to 400m;
- Was at peak fitness 3rd up. All of his best ratings are either 3rd or 4th up;
- Proven stayer over the distance on firm ground. Had conditions to suit;
- Ethan Brown applied maximum pressure on the favourite by keeping the foot down. Sheza Alibi has a big turn of foot that she can sustain for 6-7 furlongs however I believe the plan was to get her out of her comfort zone chasing a fast tempo a long way from home;
- The 1400m-1200m section was brilliant! Ethan Brown managed to give Land Legend a slight breather without letting anything else catch up. He increased the tempo again from the 1200 and really spaced the field out;
- He’s won in a fast pace leading previously when winning the St Leger at Randwick over 2600m;
- Old form – Land Legend’s maiden win was over 2050m at Newcastle (UK) by 5.5L. A wise man once told me that good horses have a defining run early in their career. This was it! I’m confident that this run would have sparked the attention of Waller and Maher.
- Land Legend had excuses last start – raced keen and the saddle slipped. Can always forgive one poor run.
Land Legend produced a career-best effort under ideal circumstances, although the performance doesn’t necessarily establish him as the superior horse over Sheza Alibi.
No doubt we will see another solid pace from Land Legend next start in the Caulfield Cup (if indeed he backs up)!
