Warwick Capper found himself in the winner’s stall after a horse named after the AFL great scored a thrilling win at Bendigo on Wednesday.
Former 1980s high-flying Swans full-forward Warwick Capper was on hand at the course to see his namesake Capper Thirtynine post his first win on Wednesday.
Capper Thirtynine was unplaced at his previous start in the spring and most punters had little faith in the two-year-old in his first-up outing, allowing him to drift from $4.80 to $12 in betting.
However, Capper Thirtynine’s late surge got him home narrowly over the favourite Marching.
Jockey Ben Allen said he knew he won the race when he heard a familiar catchcry on track.
“I did hear someone scream out ‘Capper’, so I thought I must’ve got the bob,” Allen said.
Capper was thrilled to have the microphone and camera at his disposal in the post-race interview.
“Thanks to Nick Ryan and all the trainers,” Capper said.
“All the owners came up from Melbourne to Bendigo, it’s a great place to get a win.
“It’s great to actually get up – just.
“Great win, hopefully we can keep it going for the rest of the year and it’s great to be in Bendigo.
“You beauty … you’ve been a great audience.”
And with that, the Capper show was over until Capper Thirtynine next appears at the races in the coming weeks.
Capper Thirtynine flies home to beat Marching in the opening race at Bendigo. Picture: Brett Holburt-Racing Photos via Getty Images