Cosmic Crusader stuns field to win Cox Plate at Flemington
West Australian horse Cosmic Crusader won the $6 million Cox Plate with jockey William Pike.
West Australian horse Cosmic Crusader won the $6 million Cox Plate at Flemington. The victory was a shock, as jockey William Pike steered the outsider home ahead of heavily-favoured contenders.
Trainer Chris Waller had been chasing a record-equalling seventh title. Champion jockey James McDonald was hunting his fifth consecutive Cox Plate win.
Racing legend Gai Waterhouse was seeking her first Cox Plate crown. Cosmic Crusader crossed ahead of Birdman second, McDonald's Aeliana third, and Ceolwulf fourth.
It was the iconic race's first running at Flemington.
- $6 million
- Prize
- Bob Peters
- Owner-breeder
- Northerly
- Previous western winner
- 2001 and 2002
- Northerly's wins
Why it mattersThe shock victory disrupts career storylines for three of Australia's racing legends.
AustraliaWestern Australian racing gains prestige after Cosmic Crusader's upset, and the Cox Plate's new Flemington venue reshapes the racing calendar.
Corroborated bysmh.com.au·theage.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 h ago
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