Victorian reinswoman Michelle Phillips claimed her first Group 1 victory when a horse dear to her heart led all the way to win the Redcliffe Gold Cup on Saturday night.
Phillips drove John Nicholson-trained Sebs Choice to victory in the $106,070 standing start feature, with the pair holding off a number of threats in the home straight to win by 2.6m on the line.
Northview Hustler (Jack Butler/Hayden Barnes) and Captain Crusader (Rickie Alchin) ran the minor placings.
“He was there in a hard time of my life and he’s just picked me up every time. I just can’t thank Bully (John Nicholson) and the family enough for giving me the opportunities,” Phillips told Sky Racing Active.
“He felt amazing on the top turn when they started coming three wide. He just kept kicking and I’m so proud of him.
“He kept coming up the straight and didn’t give in. His heart is so big right now.”
Sebs Choice completed a double for Nicholson and Phillips after stablemate Alby Two Chains won the opening event on the Redcliffe card.