Racing: McKays get special win with The Mitigator in Thorndon Mile at Trentham

The Thorndon Mile at Trentham has always been one of the McKay family's favourite races, but yesterday, it became much more special.

The Mitigator delivered a third victory in the time-honoured feature for Matamata trainer Peter McKay, who had previously won it with Alamosa in 2008 and Puccini in 2015.

Even more significantly, it was a first taste of Group 1 glory for his son, jockey Shaun McKay.

"This is awesome," the 23-year-old said. "I'm speechless and over the moon. To win a Group 1 race has been a dream, and to do it for my family is even better. Dad's an awesome trainer, and it means a lot to win a Group 1 race for him."

Peter McKay described it as a special win for a close-knit family.

"I'm thrilled for Shaun," he said. "It was a very good ride on a good horse. When he had a look over his shoulder, I thought he must have been pretty confident, but it's a long way down that straight. It's great for Shaun, and also my wife Kim."

The Mitigator's win in the metric mile showpiece was a career pinnacle for the son of Master of Design, and it came at long odds of $28.70.

The Mitigator dominated the race from the front and fought for all he was worth when challenged in the straight.

- NZ Racing Desk