Ellerslie racegoers got to witness expat Kiwi jockey James McDonald have his first ride back on home soil in several years at the Karaka Millions meeting at Ellerslie on Saturday, and he made an instant impact in front of the sold-out crowd.

Sydney-based McDonald had returned across the Tasman to partner the Stephen Marsh-trained filly Velocious (Written Tycoon) in the Karaka Millions 2YO (1200m) and he showed why he is revered as one of the world’s best.

After jumping away well out of the barriers, McDonald was able to secure the coveted one-one position with Velocious, where she was able to settle beautifully.

“This race has eluded me a little bit this race,” McDonald said.

I have finished a few seconds, but I was on the right filly today, (who was) trained to an absolute minute. She gave me a beautiful ride and produced the goods, it was unreal.”

It was an emotional homecoming for McDonald who said it was great to be back riding at Ellerslie on their new StrathAyr track.

“Ellerslie was our headquarters growing up, I was here for three or four years. It was my favourite track, and it still is. To get success here is just awesome,” he said.

“There is nothing like home and even though we live in Australia, it is always great to come back and ride winners, especially big ones like that.”

McDonald was impressed with Velocious’ talent and tenacity, and he believes there is a bright future in store for the daughter of Written Tycoon.

“I could feel them coming (in the straight) but she pulled out all the stops, she didn’t feel like she was ever going to get beaten,” McDonald said.

“She is very good, and I just love her tenacity, she is just a gorgeous filly.”

With victory, Velocious extended her career record to three wins and a placing from four starts, with her Karaka Millions triumph joining her win in the Listed Challenge Stakes (1100m) and third placing in the Group 2 Eclipse Stakes (1200m).

McDonald guided his charge three-wide and Velocious was able to reel in the leaders and hit the front with 250m to go.

She held out the late challenge of Damask Rose (Savabeel) to win by 2-1/2 lengths, denying Te Akau Racing a record eighth straight victory in the race.

Saturday’s victory completes the Karaka Millions collection for McDonald, who had previously won the Karaka Millions 3YO Classic (1600m) aboard Long Leaf (Fastnet Rock) in 2019 for trainers David and Ben Hayes and Tom Dabernig.