Ladies First wins 2017 Wanganui Cup Listed NZ$50,000 at Wanganui (NZ), 2040m.
An easy last start winner of the Rangitikei Cup (Listed, 1550m), Ladies First scored in similar fashion here, racing away over the final 200m for another easy win, her sixth from ten raceday starts. Rider Lisa Allpress settled the mare midfield three wide with a circuit to run, but got a little closer to the rail heading down the back straight.
Allpress made her move at the 500m, threaded between runners and was ready to pounce on the leaders six wide turning in. Once balanced, they cruised up to share the lead but inside the 200m began to surge clear, going on to score easily.
Zartan tracked the winner into the straight, running on to hold a distant second from Pacorus, who led or shared the lead to the 200m then battled away for third. Blathwayt nabbed fourth late after being well back.
