The Haunui Farm WFA Classic was widely viewed as a match race between the two
and so it developed with the New Plymouth representative gaining the upper hand
close to the post."To me he was very strong late and looking like he wants 2000 metres now," trainer Allan Sharrock said.
Jason Waddell was having his first ride on Kawi and he played his part to perfection to guide Savabeel's best son to victory.
"He's class and they played the waiting game and when they got out into the open he was dominant in the last few strides," Sharrock said.
"I'll speak to Jason, but I'm leaning toward the 2000 metre at Ellerslie next."
The Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes in a fortnight's time is the race Sharrock has his eye on and will then make a choice between Sydney or Brisbane.
Kawi settled back on the rails before Waddell got him off the fence near the 600 metre mark to improve around runners.
Start Wondering, in search of the third Group One victory of his campaign, was in front at the top of the straight but he was unable to hold out Kawi's finishing burst and succumbed by three quarters of a length.
Sofia Rosa was two and a half lengths adrift of the top two, but there was plenty of merit in her run after missing the kick. Like Kawi, she will appreciate the step up to 2000 metres in the New Zealand Stakes ahead of a trip to Sydney. – NZ Racing Desk.
