Canyon defies top-weight in nursery

Ger Lyons moved onto the 30 winner mark for the year when Greek Canyon defied top-weight in the Rooftop Restaurant at Gowran Park Nursery.

Keagan Latham 's mount made all, and the easy to back 13/2 shot stayed on well in the straight to hold off the challenges of Jimtown (9/1) and Money Spider (11/1) by half a length and a head. Lonrach was the subject of a major plunge on her handicap debut (16/1-6/1) but could find no extra on the outer in the straight finishing fifth.

Lyons brother Shane said, “He's a game horse and gave his all. Being a Moss Vale we were worried about the ground but he's a lovely moving horse. We'll see what the handicapper does with him now but he could be Hong Kong bound as he ticks all the boxes and we have seen some interest from clients over there in him. Seven furlongs suits him well.”

Latham said, “He's a strong galloper and has nice gate speed so it made sense to make it. He fought them off bravely. They are kicking the top off the ground but I'd say it's still proper good ground.”

Following rain before and after the first race the going was changed before this second race to good, from good to firm.

Alan Magee