Messerati’s tough win in Temora Cup

Ten year old gelding Messerati (Art Major) showed plenty of grit to hold off his rivals to take out the time honoured Temora Cup on Saturday evening.

In an even race, Messerati was driven perfectly by James Locke who angled Messerati with the one out and one back trail. Master Gouda found the lead but surrendered when favourite Kimcando went around the field to take up the running.

Just Rollyourown was one out and two back while Cortez who had some support was back at the rear.

Locke made his run on Messerati who challenged the leaders on the final bend. Kimcando was struggling and then broke up inconveniencing Master Gouda and Alta Equus.

It was a slogging finish down the home straight with Messerati giving plenty to defeat the fast finishing Mirador Lass who came from last in the final lap to flash home out wide just ahead of Just Rollyourown.

MESSERATI 10 JAN REPLAY

Messerati is trained by Steven Lee who is based at Crookwell near Canberra so the trip was well justified. The winner rated 1.59.8 for the 2386 metre trip.

Messerati has been a grand performer starting his career as a two year old and from his first appearance when he won at Charlton in April 2018, the veteran has raced on another 172 occasions for 24 wins and just under $240,000 in stake money.

Temora’s cup night turned out to be a major success for the hard working committee. This was the second of their five meetings this season. Their remaining meetings will be on 10 February, 3 March and their final date is Monday 6 April Easter Monday where they should have a good holiday crowd turn out.

The club recently spent $60,000 on the track and rail to conform with required standards. However in 2027 they will only have two meetings allocated for the season.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink