'Doesn't feel real': Star jockey Jamie Kah's teary tribute to late racing great Colin McKenna
Star jockey Jamie Kah has paid tribute to late racing great Colin McKenna after steering Another Wil to victory in the Group 2 Damien Oliver at Flemington.
McKenna, who was one of racing's most influential businessmen, died at the age of 74 after a short battle with cancer.
The founder of the Midfield Group was an active supporter of the Ciaron Maher stable, having won the 2016 Caulfield Cup together and later connecting with Another Wil and Kah.
FOLLOW LIVE: Victoria Derby Day 2024
READ MORE: Luai sends stirring message to Tigers fans
READ MORE: Piastri nabs sprint session pole in Brazil
READ MORE: Manchester United makes 'highly rated' Amorim their man
As the five-year-old racing sensation crossed in first place, Kah was brought to tears as she pointed to the sky in honour of McKenna.
"It means everything, to the team, to Cairon, to Janice," Kah told Nine post-race.
"I just wanted to make Col proud. Thank god we got the win in the end.
"He was just the best person ... it doesn't feel real.
"The last message I had to Col was what I thought of Another Wil in the Toorak ... he just said, 'no, she is just a Jamie horse' and I'm glad he was right."
Choking back tears, Kah revealed she had spoken with the McKenna family ahead of the race.
"I spoke to Janice [McKenna's wife] this morning," she said.
"She told me, 'don't be a sook, you're alright, be tough.' Oh god, what amazing people they have around her at the moment.
"It would be extremely hard for her but she's just so tough and is coping so well."
Watch the 2024 Melbourne Cup Carnival on Nine and 9Now!
Another Wil ridden by Jamie Kah wins the The Damien Oliver at Flemington Racecourse. Racing Photos via Getty Images
The 28-year-old did not take complete ownership of Another Wil's success on Saturday, hinting that her heaven sent run may have had divine intervention.
"I definitely think we had some help, everything opened up and it doesn't normally," she told Nine post-race.
"When we took the first gap something picked us up and carried us over the line because he felt like he was struggling a little bit.
"I trust this horse, he has done it before and pushed his way through gaps.
"Col, if you could keep helping me out for the rest of the day that would be fantastic."
Maher also paid an emotional tribute to McKenna, who was a fundamental influence over the development, philosophies and style of the trainer's racing empire.
"He was a legend, a good mate," a teary Maher said.
"He thought the horse would bounce back today.
"A lot of his family, Janice, they will be watching on, very proudly.
"He was just such a great mentor and mate."
