Young trainer Mitchell Freedman expressed his satisfaction, stating ‘it’s what you do it for,’ as the resilient Attrition outlasted fellow seasoned competitor Lindermann to claim his second $2 million Hill Stakes title.
Attrition had previously won the Group 2 feature in 2024 and was the runner-up to Lindermann last year. However, this time, Attrition secured his second victory in the prestigious race at Rosehill on Saturday, reigniting their rivalry.
In a nail-biting conclusion, Attrition ($6), under the guidance of jockey Jamie Mott, managed to get the better of Nash Rawiller aboard Lindermann ($1.70 fav) in the dying strides, winning by a half-neck. Eliyass ($9) finished a further three-quarters of a length back in third place.
‘If there is any vision of me jumping up and down, I might win the vertical leap at the AFL draft if they want to put me in after that,’ a jubilant Freedman quipped.
‘It was obviously a really competitive race up there on speed. The first three in running were first three across the line. Nash rated his horse to perfection, Jamie Mott pulled out at the right time, and it was a good dual the last fifty metres. When they went past me, I could see him start to put his head in front and it’s such a good feeling. These are the things you soak up. It’s what you do it for, and we’ll certainly enjoy it.’
Freedman, who trains a select group of horses at Ballarat in Victoria, structured Attrition’s campaign to peak for the Hill Stakes (1900m) at his fourth start, a strategy consistent with the horse’s previous appearances in the last two renewals.
The gelding has now achieved five wins from 33 starts, with an additional 10 placings, and Saturday’s triumph has elevated his total earnings to over $5.5 million.
Freedman commented that Attrition has been an exceptional performer for his stable and sees no impediment to the horse returning next year to vie for a third title.
‘We’ll mark it in the calendar, mark it as the fourth-up run, and do our best,’ he said. ‘It’s not too many times he’s out of that weight-for-age level and he keeps showing up. He’s a beautiful, sound horse. He’s got the best temperament that you’ll ever come across and he’s a much loved member of our team, that’s for sure.’
The connections of Attrition will be looking to back up their impressive win in the Hill Stakes by checking out the latest racing odds at Australian betting sites.
