Trainer's stunning win at Warrnambool cements his place in "immortality"

The Federal Member for Wannon said there was only one word to describe what Maher, a Winslow export, had done - "immortality".

"Well done. It is extraordinary, a stunning achievement," he said of Maher's training performance with Rockstar Ronnie, a $6.50 chance.

"What a fantastic day, what a fantastic event."

Mr Tehan presented a ceremonial whip to winning jockey, Irishman Chris McCarthy.

Mr Tehan said McCarthy had started a new tradition, something he was keen to see at the carnival from now on, after leaping from Rockstar Ronnie in the mounting yard and then later being chaired on the shoulders of supporters.

"From Cork to Warrnambool, it's quite extraordinary what you've been able to achieve," he said. "You've set a new precedent. You've been carried through the crowd."

Mr Tehan said the way McCarthy had led the race on Rockstar Ronnie all the way and hold off challengers in the run home was impressive. "It was a ride of perfection," he said. "It was a fantastic event."

Warrnambool Racing Club chairman Mark McNamara was delighted with the feature jumps race where no horses fell.

"It's one of the best grand annuals ever," he said.

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