State Of Rest has won a dramatic Cox Plate ahead of Anamoe at Moonee Valley, after a protest was dismissed by stewards.
The four-year-old — with jockey John Allen on board — had crossed the line narrowly ahead of Anamoe, who was ridden by Craig Williams.
However, a protest was lodged almost immediately with stewards, after Williams claimed there had been interference from Allen in the late stages of the race.
A lengthy deliberation followed, with stewards ultimately dismissing the protest.
There had been drama earlier on Saturday when Zaaki — a firm favourite to win the Cox Plate — was withdrawn from the $5 million race after recording an elevated temperature.
Trainer Annabel Neasham made the decision to scratch the UK import moments before Saturday’s deadline.
Zaaki had surged to the top of Cox Plate betting after a string of wins during Queensland’s Winter Carnival.
More to come.
ABC/AAP
