Emotions were high at Caulfield on Wednesday as stable stalwart Yam saluted in honour of his late co-owner, Gerry Muller.

Taking on the 1500m Benchmark 66 Handicap for the colts and geldings, Emily Pozman was aboard, and it was an easy watch as the 5YO Pluck gelding won by a length in the $50,000 event.

Muller, who enjoyed much success as an owner with trainer Craig Weeding, racing Dark Legacy before Yam, passed away earlier this year after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

“He got crook around Christmas time, and it was a bit advanced, so there wasn’t much time to do anything apart from enjoy what he had left,” said Gerry’s son, Terry Muller.

“He kicked on and never complained, but he loved the horse, so my brother, sister and I have taken over as we thought we’d keep it going for him.

“Plus, he’s one of ten (siblings), and they’re all into their racing and love it; they thought it was good he managed to get a half-decent horse, and they all follow it.”

Terry was on course at Caulfield as the well-supported Yam ($6 into $4.40) landed the first metropolitan victory of his eight-win career, while taking his career earnings to over $220,000.

“It was all a bit surreal to be honest,” Terry said.

“I had never been to Caulfield, and walking in there with a friend and then meeting Rick (Bayliss), the other owner, was great.

“Craig is also a very approachable guy, and he said, ‘come through and enjoy the day’.

“He seemed confident and instructed the jockey to ride him how you feel as long as he jumps, and I’m still pinching myself.”

Yam will continue to run in honour of Gerry, who was a genuine racing character and a wonderful supporter of Craig and his stable.

Weeding’s attention will soon turn to meetings at Bendigo on Friday, Kilmore and Corowa on Monday, Echuca on Tuesday, and Sandown on Wednesday.

Words: Jeff Hanson
Image: Racing Photos