Signoff secures Lexus Stakes

Authorized's progesssive son Signoff produced a stunning turn of foot to claim the G3 Lexus Stakes at Flemington on 1 November, securing his position in Tuesday’s G1 Melbourne Cup.

Getting the run of the race, jockey Joao Moreira settled Signoff around three lengths from the leader. Pulling himself around the field as the home turn was reached, Signoff hit the front a furlong from home and surged clear to record a two-and-a-half length victory for trainer Darren Weir.

His victory has seen the five-year-old promoted to co-favourite for Australia’s greatest staying contest. The last winner of the Lexus Stakes who went on to claim victory in the Cup was Street Cry’s son Shocking, so hopes are high that it could be another Melbourne Cup victory for the progeny the Darley stallions.

Bred by Darley, Signoff is the first Stakes winner out of the Gone West mare Miss Hepburn, a daughter of G3 winner Circle Of Gold who is in turn a sister to the dam of Champion Stayer Rule Of Law.

Derby winner Authorized is also sire of G1 winners Seal Of Approval, My Ambivalent (who is also due to line up in 'the race that stops a nation' on Tuesday) and Complacent. He will stand the forthcoming season at Haras du Logis at a fee of €10,000 Oct 1st, Special live foal.