Piercing (NZ)  scored her first Kranji win in a drama-filled $65,000 Ankara Stakes Initiation race (1400m) on Saturday.

The former New South Wales mare (Pins x You Dreamer) with Matthew Kellady aboard swept past short-priced favourite Orient Supreme for a convincing one-length win, completely unaware of a horrific horse spill at the 800m that involved jockeys V Sivan and John Sundradas.

The 12-horse field was careering at full speed from the backstretch when John¡¯s mount Lord Octagon suddenly ducked and stumbled, sending John crashing to the ground. Standbyme who was right behind clipped heels dislodging Sivan who was seen hitting the turf in spectacular fashion.

Piercing gets the upper hand on Orient Supreme
 

From early reports, both jockeys are unfit to ride and likely to be stood down for the rest of the day.

¡°I had no idea what happened at the back,¡± said Kellady. ¡°My horse was travelling well in fourth and I had to come out when a horse came around my outside.¡

¡°She fought on very well and though the second-placed horse did seem to kick back, she just dug deeper to get there first.¡±

Winning trainer Steven Burridge understandably had mixed feelings about his new charge¡¯s victory, as Lord Octagon is his as well.

¡°I won but I also lost the other horse. I hope both riders are okay,¡± said Burridge as he cast an anxious gaze at the riderless horse.

it's good to see him win especially today as the Australian owners are over here on business.¡± Burridge added.

Copyright 2006 Singapore Turf Club