Unbeaten Black Caviar jogs to 20th win

Australia's unbeaten wonder mare Black Caviar returned from a two-month

holiday to dust an overmatched field in Saturday's Group 1 Robert Sangster

before a packed house of 30,000 at Morphettville. As her fans waved flags with

the color scheme of her silks -- salmon pink and black dots -- the world's best

sprinter registered her 20th straight win, breaking the Australasian record for

a winning streak at metropolitan (as opposed to bush) tracks.

Black Caviar, who was last seen prevailing over her archrival Hay List in the

Group 1 Lightning Stakes February 18, did not have any opponents of that mettle

here. Back to distaff-only company, Black Caviar broke alertly, but regular

rider Luke Nolen was happy to concede the early lead. The superstar effortlessly

struck the front turning for home and drew off by 4 1/2 lengths, finishing six

furlongs in 1:10 3/5 on the turf course rated dead.

Sistine Angel edged Power Princess for runner-up honors, but all eyes were on

the gearing-down Black Caviar. The Peter Moody trainee shut it down on the

gallop-out before soaking up the adulation from the crowd.

"I was pretty happy with where she was," Moody told racingandsports.com.au.

"Luke has got great faith in her ability and so have I. I don't think we ever

had too much concern.

"Luke was pretty kind to her, he gave her one little smack on the bum and she

did the rest."

Moody also commented on Black Caviar's bomb-proof temperament, which was

evident as she sauntered placidly to the gate despite the crowd noise and a

musical performance.

"It's unbelievable isn't it, how she has coped with it," Moody said. "Most of

your sprinters are wound up, excitable types. But she's just so laid-back and

takes it all in her stride. She's a remarkable horse."

Black Caviar is expected to bid for number 21 back at Morphettville in the

Group 1 Goodwood Handicap, also over six furlongs, on May 12.

Then Black Caviar will fly the Australian flag at Royal Ascot, with the Group

1 Diamond Jubilee on June 23 her target.