In the recent QTIS Jewel event held on the Gold Coast, the partnership of jockey Cejay Graham and trainer Kelly Schweida emerged victorious, showcasing an impressive performance that led Grafterburners to claim the $500,000 2YO Jewel title. The race, which took place during a rescheduled twilight meeting, witnessed Graham skillfully guiding the talented colt to outpace competitors like Pink Vixen and Betterlucknexttime.

The success of Graham and Schweida in the QTIS Jewel comes on the heels of their participation in a series of races in southeast Queensland, where they traveled from Brisbane to the Gold Coast. This achievement follows Schweida’s recent triumph at the $1 million Inglis Sprint with El Morzillo at Flemington, adding another feather to their cap.

The decision to fly down to the Gold Coast by helicopter proved beneficial for Schweida and his team, especially considering the initial setback of a challenging barrier draw. Despite the odds, Graham’s strategic ride and Grafterburners’ impressive form paved the way for a well-deserved victory. Schweida expressed his delight for the owners, highlighting their resilience in the face of previous setbacks in horse racing.

For Graham, the win at the QTIS Jewel marks another high point in her career, coming shortly after her exceptional performance at Doomben, where she rode four winners at a city meeting. Her confidence in Grafterburners’ ability throughout the race underscored her skill and rapport with the horse, making her a key player in the victory.

Reflecting on the race, Graham emphasized the colt’s strong performance and her strategic positioning during the event. She acknowledged the support and trust extended by Schweida, attributing the win to a collaborative effort between the team members. The victory not only signifies a personal milestone for Graham but also underscores the potential of Grafterburners as a standout two-year-old in the racing circuit.

In a parallel narrative, Brisbane’s leading trainer Tony Gollan also tasted success at the event, with his mare Liquor clinching victory in the $125,000 Military Rose. Gollan’s timely arrival at the Gold Coast via helicopter ensured he did not miss the opportunity to witness his horse’s triumph, further highlighting the significance of strategic decisions in the realm of horse racing.

The QTIS Jewel event not only showcased the talent and expertise of jockeys and trainers but also underscored the unpredictable and thrilling nature of horse racing. As the racing season unfolds, such victories serve as testaments to the dedication, skill, and teamwork that define this dynamic sport, captivating audiences and participants alike with each exhilarating race day.