Darryl Bradley brings Hunta Pence back to the Wanganui birdcage after their win in the Listed Steelform Roofing Group Wanganui Cup. Photo / Race Images
Darryl Bradley brings Hunta Pence back to the Wanganui birdcage after their win in the Listed Steelform Roofing Group Wanganui Cup. Photo / Race Images
Evergreen galloper Hunta Pence was rewarded for his perseverance when he won the Listed Steelform Roofing Group Wanganui Cup (2040m) after finishing runner-up in the race in the past two years.
The Patrick Campbell-trained eight-year-old had been narrowly beaten by Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) winner Sentimental Miss in 2019and had to bow to subsequent Gr.1 Auckland Cup (3200m) winner Glory Days in 2018 in his first two attempts at the race before making it third-time lucky in the hands of Darryl Bradley on Saturday.
Bradley showed the benefit of his many years of experience to urge Hunta Pence to the front at the 800m, as he established a three-length break on his rivals approaching the home turn.
Under strong riding, the No Excuse Needed gelding stuck to his guns in the run home to cling to victory ahead of local runner Overtheriver with the well-supported Sir Nate battling on gamely for third.
Campbell had been hoping for an improved effort from his charge after he had been unlucky in several of his lead-up runs.
"He hasn't had the best of luck this time in as he has struck some tracks that just don't suit him," he said.
"I thought he was ready to show some improvement as he has a great record at Wanganui and the past two years, he has been beaten by Group One winners in this race, which is no disgrace at all.
"A few things were in his favour today and added to that was a top ride by Darryl. "He showed all his experience to take him to the front when he did and he rated him to perfection.
