Canya Exclusive Back From Brink To Win Casino Cup

CANYA Exclusive, almost given up as unlikely to race again, has come back with a vengeance and on Friday led throughout to win the Group 3 Casino Cup (484m).

The son of Fernando Bale-Wynburn Mia exploded to the front at box rise and then held off a determined Magistrate to win the Cup by three lengths in 27.43 with a length and a half to Gypsy Joker in third.

It took Canya Exclusive's race record to a remarkable 17 starts for 13 wins and his prizemoney to $62,000.

It was a tribute to the perseverance of firstly owner Nick Lalli, vet John Newell, and of course Michelle and Mick Lill.

“We have put a lot into this dog to bring him back to the track,” said Mick.

Canya Exclusive was bought by Nick Lalli as a youngster and he sent him to Perth to be trained by Steve Withers.

Withers won 10 in a row with Canya Exclusive, but he damaged a stopper tendon and developed issues with a hock.

“Steve tried and tried to get him back to the track, but he would keep pulling up sore,” said Nick.

“Eventually he suggested to try someone else.”

Nick raced G1 Adelaide Cup winner Buzz Junkie with Michelle and Mick Lill and asked if they would give Canya Exclusive a try.

Leading vet, John Newell, was their first visit when the dog arrived in NSW.

Mick Lill was in raptures after the victory.

“He's a really good dog this bloke,” he said. “He showed that when he won at Goulburn for us in 19.57 just outside the track record held by our own dog More Sauce.

“We will now head to the heats of the Maitland Cup next Friday.

“It sets up nice for him. We will also take Canya Smurf to Maitland for the Cup heats.”

The Cup was a demolition derby by the winning post the first time with the seven others giving chase to Canya Exclusive and most checking severely.

Favourite Magistrate was not as well away, and then checked but he also got a clear run passing the 411m boxes which got him into second.