Stable stalwart and Moloney Racing social-media star, Sunday Pray, bounced back into fine form on Wednesday at Sandown Hillside, with a tenacious win over 1400 meters.
The seven-year-old brought up his seventh career win at his 50th race start, and was aided by a brilliant front running ride by the recently-crowned Rising Star apprentice, Campbell Rawiller.
Returning to a Good 4 surface after struggling to find form on softer tracks during the winter months, the Manhattan Rain gelding relished the firmer conditions, and had tightened-up well since his last start run at Pakenham on the synthetic.
Ridden aggressively and confidently from a wide barrier, Rawiller sent Sunday Pray straight to the front and allowed the gelding to cruise along in his favourite role, with the pair seemingly unaware of their $41 starting price. Edging out on straightening to find better ground in the middle of the track, the duo fought off second and third place getters, Diode and Rich Hips, in a gruelling battle to the line to win by a nose.
With returning confidence, John is hopeful that Sunday Pray can continue his winning form during the warmer months.
Congratulations to connections and all of the hard working team at Moloney Racing!