A blowout for punters in the Listed Magic Millions Thomas Lyons Stakes at Hobart as Carleen Hefel came with a barnstorming finish from last on the Street Boss (USA) gelding Just A Tribute.
Trained by local legend Gary White, the 6-year-old gelding broke through at stakes level by defeating the Tasmanian Stakes winner First Accused (Turffontein) by a half-length, with the leader Turk Warrior hanging on for third.
A homebred for Eddie Hirsch, Jut A Tribute began life with John Salanitri in Victoria before transferring to While.
The son of Street Boss (USA) advances his record to seven wins, five seconds, and five thirds from 33 starts with earnings of $192,175.
Just A Tribute finished sixth in the race last year behind the top-class The Inevitable.
“I have to thank Eddie Hirch and all the staff. Eddie trusted us with the horse, and he said to have a throw at the stumps,” White said.
“I have won this race a few times and wanted to add another one before I retire.
“He is a much better horse this year than last year, as he had an issue with his throat.”
A half-brother to the talented Pacific Ruby (Krmadec), who reeled off four consecutive wins in Melbourne for Ciaron Maher & David Eustace, Just A Tribute is one of three winners from five to race for the Encosta de Lago mare Laura's Charm.
The winner of the Group II MVRC Sunline Stakes and Group III VRC Schweppervescence Trophy (Frances Tressady Stakes), Laura's Charm was a $55,000 purchase at the Patinack Dispersal in 2014.
A half-sister to the Group III Red Anchor Stakes winner Corton Charlemagne, Laura's Charm has a 2-year-old sister to Just A Tribute, a yearling colt by Rich Enuff, and foaled a Kermadec colt in December.
Just A Tribute is the 68th black-type winner worldwide for Darley Stud’s Street Cry (IRE) stallion Street Boss (USA).
