We Betcha gets the money

By Caryl Williamson

SYDNEY, July 31 AAP - The Thredbo Handicap at Rosehill encapsulated the Sydney season when the two leading stables fought out a close finish.

Chris Waller had to settle for second in the trainers' premiership but was all smiles when We Betcha kicked back to claim a long head win over the Peter Snowden-trained Counterpane.

In a special twist, Counterpane was bred by Bob Ingham's Woodlands Stud which he sold to Sheikh Mohammed in 2008, while We Betcha was one of the first horses Ingham bought to start a new venture with Waller.

"I spoke to Mr Ingham this morning and I'm sure he would be proud of that," Waller said.

"Peter was with him for a long time and it's a privilege for me to be training for him.

"He is still as interested as he ever was."

We Betcha ($6) was ridden by Glyn Schofield who has linked with Waller in recent weeks to forge a formidable partnership.

Earlier in the day they combined with Hawk Island to win the Daily Press Handicap (2000m).

"Glyn is a strong rider and he was aggressive on her," Waller said.

"He got her travelling so once there was half a gap she was there to take it.

"That's the difference when you get the topline riders, they turn seconds into wins."

By Encosta De Lago out of outstanding race filly Wager, We Betcha was a $600,000 yearling and the win was her third from 17 starts which have also yielded six placings including a short neck second to Counterpane in December.