War of Sucession goes back to back at Ellerslie

[Wandering Eyes]

Last start course winner War Of Succession (Tavistock) relished stepping in distance when winning the $40,000 Horizon By SkyCity Rating 65 2100 metres on Saturday at Ellerslie.

In the process, War Of Succession took seasonal prize money earnings for Te Akau Racing to a new record, topping $9 million for the first time in New Zealand racing history.

Having recorded a very good second-up victory in the Rating 65 1600 metres on 17 May at Ellerslie, War Of Succession remained in the same grade and carried 56.5kg, aided by the three-kilo claim of apprentice Hayley Hassman, who won the first race on the programme aboard stable-mate Pokuru Gold (NZ) (Darci Brahma).

Bred to stay, and a four-length Maiden winner over 1950 metres, War Of Succession appeared nicely placed to again rate a top three chance.

Settling off a genuine early pace, War Of Succession seemed to travel sweetly when pressure increased at the 600m, cruised into contention turning for home, and kept responding with a well-timed finish to score stylishly.

It was another competent ride by a young apprentice with the bit between her teeth, matched by the performance of a promising staying horse that boasts three wins from four starts on soft footing.

“He relaxed beautifully and did an amazing job out there,” Hassman said.

“The pace was on from the start and that really suited us, and we were able to kick through between runners on the home bend. He did everything perfectly and ran home strongly.

“He had kicked before I even asked him and was right underneath me, ready to strike. When I asked him, he put them bed.

“I ride him in pacework at home, so have got to know him pretty well, ridden him in a couple of trials, too, and good to get the ride on race day. He’s improving with each run.”

On Soft7 footing, that subsequently upgraded to Soft6, War Of Succession ran 2100 metres in 2:12.8, last 600m in 37.6, and paid $3.50 & $1.60.

“It was another really good win and a lovely ride of Hayley’s,” Walker said. “She got him into a perfect spot, off the fence at the right time, and got to the right part of the track turning for home. She’s riding very well.

“We’re very thankful for the patience of the owners. He’s just had a few niggles and maturity problems, but he’s starting to put it altogether now.”

War Of Succession was purchased by David Ellis CNZM at the 2022 Karaka Book 1 Sale, from the draft of Cambridge Stud, and owned by Te Akau 2022 Stallion Breeding Syndicate.

“It was great to have Pokuru Gold win for Ian Farrelly and then this horse (War Of Succession) for a really good group of owners,” Ellis said.

“They’ve been patient and it’s great to see them being rewarded with a horse that has now won consecutive races at Ellerslie, and looks to have a bright future over ground.

“The horse was bred by Sir Brendan and Lady Lindsay, at Cambridge Stud, and like a lot of Tavistock’s progenies we’re seeing him improve with age.

“After torrential rain this week in Auckland, to be able to race on a track as good as they’ve got today at Ellerslie it just incredible. It’s a credit to the track staff and the club administrators.

“Those wins took us over $9 million in prize money in New Zealand this season and that’s the first time that’s ever been achieved.

“I think there are only three trainers in Melbourne that have won more than $9 million this season, one in Queensland, and about four in Sydney, so it’s a fantastic achievement.

“It shows that through Entain’s involvement in partnering with the TAB that we are racing for higher stakes, which the owners deserve, and also that Mark and Sam and all our staff are continuing to do an outstanding job.

“Also, to Hayley, it was a very good ride and she’s just going from strength to strength as young rider. It’s fantastic to see her doing so well and it’s a big thrill for Karyn and me.

“Te Akau has always been very supportive of our apprentices and Hayley is following in the footsteps of jockeys like Opie Bosson, Vinny Colgan, Samantha Collett, Troy Harris, Dan Stackhouse, Mick Dee, Wiremu Pinn, and Jasmine Fawcett.”

War Of Succession was strapped by Nicole Weatherley.

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