Crumble Monelli confirmed his status as one of the finest short-coursers ever produced in this state when he powered to his second Birthday Cup victory at Tabtouch Park Mandurah last Friday.
The David Hobby-trained superstar overcame an early challenge from Renegade Cochise to capture the 400m Group 2 feature and emulate the feat of Back Tonight (2007-08) as the only dual winner of the race.
Crumble Monelli began well from box four but he was beaten out by the fast-launching Renegade Cochise, which set a blistering pace over the first section.
Crumble Monelli was able to stay on the heels of Renegade Cochise and then on the turn he pushed through along the rail to seize the lead.
Once he was clear out in front, Crumble Monelli kicked away to put the issue beyond doubt and he rattled across the finish line more than three lengths ahead in 21.95.
The win was Crumble Monelli’s fifth straight over the 400m trip this campaign.
Combined with his record over the old distance of 405m, which was the standard prior to last year’s track renovation, Crumble Monelli has won 11 of 12 starts over the ‘400’.
Crumble Monelli is now likely to venture up the road to Cannington in preparation for a shot at the Perth Cup in a couple of months.