Perth, December 20 – Proven Group One winner Cats Fun will head to the Perth Cup in great shape after a brilliant win in the Group Two CB Cox Stakes (2400m) at Ascot on Wednesday.
Handled perfectly by Melbourne’s pin up rider Damien Oliver, Cats Fun sat just off the speed through much of the race before making his move while rounding the turn.
After hitting the front in the straight the classy performer showed great tenacity to hold off the challengers and win well.
Trainer Michael Grant has total faith in his gelding and told reporters after the race he deserved the reputation of a top class performer.
"It’s about time people start showing this horse some respect," Grant commented.
"Apart from his trip over east he is unbeaten at any distance further than 2000 metres."
It’s full steam ahead now for Cats Fun through to the Group Two WATC Perth Cup over 3200m on New Year’s Day.
"Between now and the Cup he won’t do much work. He’s a natural stayer so we don’t need to work him hard," Grant said.
Cats Fun defeated Westerly Breeze by three parts of a length taking his overall record to six wins and five placings from 24 starts, his earnings topping $500,000.
Cats Fun, by Danehill’s ill fated Golden Slipper winning sire son Catbird, is from the top producing Zabeel mare She’s Zeel.
