In an exhilarating showdown at Sheffield, Wicky Ned claimed both the Gymcrack and Steel City Cup, earning a £10,000 bonus sponsored by BresBet. The thrilling 500m final saw the 8-11 favourite, trained by Newcastle’s Jimmy Fenwick for Neil McGregor, come from behind in a heart-stopping finish.
Despite a slow start, Wicky Ned initially trailed behind his main competitor, Links Maverick, who displayed his signature burst of speed to seize the lead. Romeo Cypher, trained by David Mullins, and Union Rebel, handled by Kevin Hutton, followed closely into the first bend, with Links Maverick shining down the far straight.
Wicky Ned, however, was not to be outdone. Charging down the backstretch, he caught up with Links Maverick by the third bend, and from there, the two engaged in a neck-and-neck battle. In a nail-biting finish, Wicky Ned, an August 2022 son of Droopys Sydney, edged out his rival by a short head, finishing in 28.96 seconds. This hard-fought victory secured him the £11,500 prize and an additional £10,000 bonus.
This latest win adds to a remarkable year for the young star, with previous triumphs in the Gymcrack at the same course and distance, the Northern Flat at his home track in Newcastle, and a puppy final on Derby night at Towcester. Wicky Ned continues to impress, establishing himself as a standout performer in the racing scene.