Buffering beat the odds to score a breakthrough Group 1 victory in the $1 million Manikato Stakes (1200m) on Friday evening.

The son of Vinery sire Mossman lifted to a new level amid euphoric scenes at Moonee Valley.  “He just puts in every time and this is something special,” an elated trainer Robert Heathcote said.  “And he finally got the job done in a million dollar race.

“They say this is the place where legends are made, and he’s a legend to me.”

Buffering (6g Mossman – Action Annie by Anabaa) refused to surrender in the straight to defeat Hong Kong star Lucky Nine and Darley homebred Sessions.  The well-deserved victory arrived after 10 minor-placings in Group 1 events behind sprinters the calibre of world-champion mare Black Caviar and Hay List.

Buffering is owned in partnership by Heathcote’s wife Vicki and former Socceroo Craig Moore.  He was a $22,000 buy at the 2009 Magic Millions QTIS Sale and has now banked over $3.22 million.  Buffering and Lucky Nine will clash again in the G1 VRC Sprint Classic (1200m) on the final day of the Flemington carnival.

“He really dug in and gave me a length and you know he’s always going to fight,” jubilant jockey Damien Browne said.  “He’s accomplished everything else but he just needed to win that Group 1.  It’s just a terrific result.”

Buffering has been the flag-bearer for Mossman who has sired 23 stakes winners among 312 individual winners at a buoyant 67% strike-rate.   He stands for a $19,800 (inc gst) service fee at Vinery.

– Karl Patterson

BUFFERING BREAKTHROUGH
Mossman sprinter defeats Lucky Nine in the G1 Manikato Stakes