Leading trainer notches milestone win

LEADING trainer Craig Cross’ remarkable season has resulted another milestone.

With his stable racing in sensational fashion during the past 12 months Cross has captured majors such as the Miracle Mile, A G Hunter and Victoria Cups.

Heading to Club Menangle last night with 199 New South Wales wins for the season Cross ended the evening having reached a double century.

Cross achieved the feat by capturing the opening event on the card, with the win serving as the opening leg of a quartet.

“It’s been a pretty amazing season,” Cross said. “The stable has enjoyed a lot of success which is particularly good to be able to do so for our owners.

“Traditionally the season will end tomorrow so to get 200 wins in New South Wales within the year is very satisfying.”

Driven by Jack Callaghan, it was Motu Gatecasher which provided Cross with his 200^th local success by leading throughout in 1:54.1 over 2300 metres.

Cross was then triumphant with Royal Aurora, No Win No Feed and Zennart.

Luke McCarthy piloted the first two, with Leonard Cain taking the reins behind the latter which caused an upset as a $16 shot.

After enjoying the run of the race behind the leader, Zennart sprinted to a four-and-a-half metre win from Balraj, with Pocket Of Terror a metre-and-a-half away third.

Shortys Mate was eight metres away third to provide Cross with the first four past the winning post.

A son of Art Major, Zennart rated a swift 1:51.4 over 2300 metres.

Along with his home track domination Cross was victorious with Love My Sister at Albion Park, giving him 224 national wins for the season.