The six-year-old has long been a reliable performer for trainers Michelle Wallis and Bernie Hackett, and once again she delivered when it mattered most.
Her first victory in this race in January 2024 was a milestone for the mare. She achieved her first group victory and also gave Crystal Hackett her first success at that level. This time it was Todd Mitchell who took the reins.
The daughter of Creatine started with a 20m handicap in the 2700m, stepping neatly and settling comfortably into the running line as a strong pace unfolded at the front.
When Loteria went three wide in the 800 meters, she followed the race behind her and still rode well within herself on the way home. Once Mitchell set her free, the mare stretched powerfully and quickly gave space to her rivals, pulling away to win by as much as 5¼ lengths.
FAITH IN MANCHESTER REPEAT
Co-trainer Bernie Hackett was pleased but not entirely surprised by what the mare produced.
‘She worked very well. You’re never overconfident, but I knew she would give a good account of herself,” he said.
“They went forward so hard I knew they had to come back, she just sat there quietly waiting. Once they got back to her, Todd let her rip and I knew we were gone.”
For Hackett, it feels particularly special to add another edition of the Breeders Stakes to the resume.
“Winning a group race feels good, winning the same race twice is great.”
The stable already has a clear plan for its next steps, with more opportunities on the horizon as summer approaches.
“In the future she will go to the Golden Gait series in December and then she will look at some of those bigger fillies and mares.”
For full race results, click here
Through Jordyn Bublitz for Harness Racing New Zealand
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