SHE'S no stranger to winning features in South Australia, but last night was a little different for champion Victorian horsewoman Emma Stewart.
A frequent cross-border visitor, Stewart has won almost every key event on the SA calendar, including the Pacing Cup, The Allwood, Derby, Oaks and a host of Southern Cross Finals.
Last week Stewart was triumphant in The Veterinary Surgeons Cup and Sapling Stake.
Returning to Globe Derby Saturday night, Stewart registered a sentimental victory by capturing The Encipher.
The event is named after millionaire mare Encipher, which Stewart prepared to secure four Group Ones, highlighted by the $2.1million The Eureka.
Undefeated from five SA starts, Encipher's wins include The Allwood, Southern Cross Final and SA Oaks.
"Encipher will always be a special mare to me," Stewart said. "So to come over and win the first race named after her was a terrific moment.
"Encipher was the first horse I trained to win $1million and I even have her name tattooed on the side of my hand."
Stewart's latest success came via House Party, which was driven to glory by local reinsman Wayne Hill.
Never seriously challenged, the daughter of Captain Crunch strolled to a 20-metre win from Shirley Not, with Dee Jays Miss three-and-a-half metres away third.
Unbeaten from two starts, House Party rated 1:55.5 over 1800 metres.
"I wouldn't put her in the same category as Encipher, but she has won both starts, so she's heading in the right direction," Stewart said. "She's gone 1:55 for 1720 metres at her first start and close to that again last night over a slightly longer trip.
"There is plenty to like about her and she should get better as she gains more experience."
