Emma Pritchard

Deny Knowledge (IRE) has become the second Grafton Cup winner in three years to achieve Group 1 success on the racetrack.

Following her gutsy victory in the premier staying event over 2350m during the 2024 XXXX July Racing Carnival, the Irish bred mare was given a six week freshen up by trainers Anthony and Sam Freedman and returned to her brilliant best over the weekend.

Lining up against seasoned gallopers including 2019 Melbourne Cup winner Vow And Declare, and seven time Group 1 winner Mr Brightside (NZ) in the Group 1 Sportsbet Might And Power over 2000m at Caulfield on October 12, Deny Knowledge (IRE) broke cleanly from barrier 6 and was rated perfectly on the speed by jockey Mark Zahra, leading the field by five lengths with 500m left to travel.

Upon entering the home straight, the mare continued to kick strongly under the urging of Zahra to defeat a gallant Mr Brightside (NZ) by just under a length on the line.

Another Group 1 winner Atishu (NZ) finished third.

In securing her maiden win at the highest level, Deny Knowledge (IRE) became the third galloper in the past 26 years after Praise Indeed and Arapaho (FR) to win the Grafton Cup prior to winning a Group 1 event.

Praise Indeed won the Grafton Cup in 1996 before triumphing in the 1998 Group 1 Brisbane Cup over 3200m, while imported gelding Arapaho (FR) won the 2022 Grafton Cup before winning the Group 1 Kia Tancred Stakes over 2400m at Rosehill Gardens the following year.

Clarence River Jockey Club (CRJC) Chief Executive Officer Michael Beattie said it is pleasing to see the Grafton Cup continue to attract stayers that are on the way up.

Following the mare’s win in the Group 1 Sportsbet Might And Power, co-trainer Sam Freedman said Deny Knowledge (IRE) could back up in the time-honoured Group 1 Caulfield Cup over 2400m on October 19 if she pulls up well.