John McArdle and Nullabor Crossing have started the new year in style winning the $70,000 '1840-2010' Handicap (1000m) at Flemington today.

Nullabor Crossing ($41,$51) jumped well and always looked to be travelling like a winner down the Flemington straight quickening when required and scoring a soft one and a half length win over Kariba Kariba ($4.6,$6) with Silver Bullion ($2.50,$2.60,$2.8) weakening for third a head away.

McArdle wasn't expecting a win but admitted to being surprised by the price.

"It was a bit of a shock to me as I thought he was a 10/1 shot," said McArdle.

"He was strong at the finish in a nice race at Caulfield last week and dropped in weight today."

Nullabor Crossing has been plagued with problems throughout his short career and McArdle observed that the straight track was a big help.

"The owner suggested he would relish the straight track as he does have a few legs problems," he said.

To enable the five-year-old gelding to reach his potential McArdle utilises modern training methods such as the 'water walker' to reduce the stress of training on his legs.

"I have to thank Lee Powell and his team out at Foreman Park they do a lot of work with the horse on the water walker and it keeps him nice and fresh."

Nullabor Crossing travelled sweetly throughout for underrated jockey Dean Yendall who admitted being confident during the run.

"I rode it like a 2/1 on favourite," joked Yendall after the win.

"John has got him going excellent this horse."

Yendall also praised the longshot and expects him to improve from the run.

"He is strong, does everything right, travels well and gives when you ask him," said Yendall.

The win boosts Nullabor Crossing's career earnings to over $70,000 from just 16 starts.

Photo by Quentin Lang

© Cyberhorse 2010 Grayson White Published 01/01/10