WA star Showmanship wins Show County Quality at Randwick for superstar jockey James McDonald

WA star Showmanship launched his spring campaign in style when scoring his first victory in almost two years in the Group 3 Show County Quality (1200m) at Randwick.

Ridden by superstar jockey James McDonald, Showmanship ($3.30 favourite) sprinted powerfully from midfield to overhaul Prime Candidate ($5.50) in the final 25m in his narrow win.

It was the Danny O’Brien-trained gelding’s second start since injuring a suspensory in 2020 and first triumph since claiming a Listed feature at Moonee Valley in September that year.

Showmanship was a candidate for The Everest before his injury and could spark interest from slot-holders for the $15 million Randwick sprint after his impressive return.

“I didn’t think he could make up that ground,” owner Bob Peters said.

“The caller said he was five lengths off them at the 200 and still three lengths off them at the 100.

“It’s nice to see him come back after such a long time off.

“He looked ready and a lot fitter than he was at Warrnambool (last start).

“He’s proved he can travel now which is a good sign.”

Showmanship vindicated Peters and O’Brien’s decision to send him to Sydney rather than tackle Saturday’s Carlyon Stakes at Moonee Valley.

McDonald was impressed by the seven-year-old, who improved his record to eight wins from 10 starts.

“He’s a classy horse and he was obviously prepped up to perfection,” McDonald said.

“Obviously I’m glad he came to Sydney today.

“He’s a real winner, he knows where the line is and he’s a pleasure to ride.

“Danny said there was plenty (of improvement) to come, so it was a lovely stepping stone, he got in well at the weights and he’s a real progressive horse.”