Trainer Cindy Alderson and apprentice jockey Logan Bates proved one-hit wonders at The Valley on Saturday when they combined with Jigsaw to win the Group 2 McEwen Stakes (1200m) with their only runner at the meeting.

The result gave Bates the rare distinction of leaving two Valleys undefeated on the day as he had earlier in the day won the second race at Yarra Valley on Empire Song, which was likewise his only ride at that meeting.

The McEwen was Bates' first opportunity at G2 level and he made the most of it on Alderson's rejuvenated sprinter.

"It is so special to do it for Cindy and the Alderson family and on this horse. When he's right, he's unbelievable and very quick," Bates said.

Bates said he was surprised he was left alone for a portion of the race in front. Fortunately for Jigsaw, likely co-leader Tropicus was a late scratching at the barrier.

Jigsaw has returned to form this campaign, as his win in the Apache Cat Classic at Cranbourne at his previous run was his first for two-and-a-half years.

It was Jigsaw's second triumph in a G2 race at The Valley after he also won the Australia Stakes in January 2023, while it also gives him a slot in the 2025 $1 million The Meteorite (1200m) at Cranbourne on November 22.

Alderson said she came to The Valley to win a spot in The Meteorite and she was thrilled to have done so.

"I only came here to get this ticket," Alderson said after her seven-year-old gelding claimed his 11th win in his career.

Alderson said Jigsaw is a quirky horse but she rode him in trackwork before he won at Cranbourne and she felt he had never been so good.

Jigsaw ($19) skipped clear of the short-priced favourite Charm Stone on the turn and went on to defeat Klabel ($26) by a length-and-three-quarters, with Bridal Waltz ($5.50) a head away third.

Source https://www.racing.com/news/2025-10-25/news-review-jigsaw-logan-bates-251025