Oink survives protest for Doomben victory

Memories of the late jockey Tim Bell have come flooding back as two-year-old Oink got up in the last stride to win at Doomben.

Oink ($5) came from behind the pace to grab Nicconi Leggera ($3.60) on the line to win by a nose in the SQS Handicap on Saturday.

Jim Byrne, who rode Nicconi Leggera, protested on the grounds the winner had bumped his mount just before the line but Paul Hammersley contended it was after the post.

Stewards agreed with Hammersley and dismissed the protest.

Bell died in Singapore in November.

Part-owner Darren Wilson explained Oink, a son of top sire Sebring, was originally bought for Bell to ride.

"I am a family friend and Tim's Dad Grant and Tim's partner Heidi are part-owners of the horse," he said.

"We bought Oink with the Golden Slipper in mind but after his first run Kelly (trainer Schweida) turned him out.

Oink races in a set of colours that include a Bell and incorporate the silks of Border Rebel who was one of the jockey's favourite horses.