SIR South dropped on the leaders like a bomb then exploded close home to win the $715,000 Jockey Club Stakes feature in a driving finish from stablemate Ministerofjustice by a neck at Caymanas Park yesterday.

Ridden to perfection by champion jockey Dick Cardenas for owner/trainer/breeder Gordon Lewis, the 5-2 chance Sir South turned for home behind the leaders. However, while they were tiring he was gaining momentum four wide and with no hindrance to his path, he began to flow freely forward, then seized the initiative from Ministerofjustice close home.

Ministerofjustice, the old warrior ridden by leading jockey Dane Nelson, led from the off but the 3-5 favourite The Guv, ridden by Shane Ellis, came forward strongly and took over the lead in the final 60 metres. Much as Ellis tried The Guv just did not have the legs to hold the advantage when Sir South came calling. He also lost second money to the 23-1 bet Ministerofjustice and had to settle for third money in the desperate rush for the wire.

Rolex, who grabbed the early lead before Ministerofjustice got going, held on to complete the frame at odds of 74-1 ridden by Omar Walker.

It was a win that Lewis expected after looking at the condition of the race. "This is a lovely colt that is enjoying good form at present and also enjoyed the way the race was run and being in receipt of 16 lbs (7.0kg) it was difficult for him to lose. And to add to this he was ridden to perfection by the jockey," Lewis added.

A four-year-old bay colt by Storm Craft out of Lady Lydia (Private Interview), Sir South was winning for the third time this season and the fifth overall from 31 career starts. He earned $390,400 as the winner's share for earnings of $3,165,350 lifetime.