Vashka wins 2015 Moonga Stakes Group 3 $150,000 at Caulfield (VIC) 4yo+, 1400m.
Vashka was smartly away and held the lead from his good barrier (4). He then steadied the mid-race tempo, was challenged coming to the home turn but lifted and grabbed a good break on turning for home. He then held on gamely in the closing stages to score a good win.
Favourite Under The Louvre went back from his outside barrier (12) and was last in the early stages. Mark Zahra steered him along the rails rounding the home turn before switching deep on straightening. He then took a little while to windup but finished strongly in the latter stages for a late-closing second.
Outsider Coronation Shallan began well and raced in fourth place, one out and one back. She was under riding at the home turn but kept battling on quite well in the straight to take the minor placing.
Worthy Cause raced outside the leader (Vashka), was under pressure nearing the home turn and then held on in the straight for (2.8 lengths) fourth.
Rock Sturdy was settled seventh on the rails from his inside barrier (1) and fought on to hold (3.8 lengths) fifth after seeming to have every chance.
