Waller Honours Nathan Berry after Tommy Salutes

Chris Waller donated his slice of Saigon Tea’s win in the Randwick opener to the 4Tracks4Kids foundation in preparation for the October walk that will honour late jockey Nathan Berry.

Berry’s twin Tommy piloted Saigon Tea, owned by Geoff Grimish, Nathan’s biggest supporter, to a soft win over her four rivals in the 2400-metre staying test.

Waller donated his $4875 cut from the win to 4Tracks4Kids, which involves a mammoth walk between Sydney’s four racetracks. Nathan was a 4Tracks4Kids ambassador before his sudden death in April.
“Tommy rode it and Geoff walks every year,” Waller said. “Geoff was the biggest fan of Nathan and he supported him as an owner, and now will do the same with Tommy.”

Saigon Tea ($2.30 favourite) ended a string of runner-up finishes after a patient ride from Berry, who reeled in leader Tohunga ($4.60) to cruise away and score by a length.

“I think she’ll go to the paddock,” Waller said. “There’s not a lot around. She’s done her job and she’s actually strengthened up while she’s been campaigning.”