Taurus wins 2016 Challenge Stakes Listed NZ$50,000 at Wanganui (NZ), 1600m.
Taurus was punched out quickly from barrier seven to lead briefly before settling second then third as the field tackled the back straight. This move by rider Jonathan Riddell meant that Taurus found the rail and saved ground all the way to the 600m mark where they moved off the rail yet three wide approaching the last corner. Into the straight Riddell went after the leader but did not get past until the 150m then ground it out for a hard fought win.
Designated Driver lay second around the bend then took over at the 600m. She tried to break clear at the top of the straight and the tactic looked promising yet by the 150m the winner had levelled and these two settled down for a battle with the winner just a shade stronger over the last few strides.
Endure made a strong forward move approaching the 600m and was second turning for home out in the middle of the track. She battled quite well to beat the rest but were not any danger to the first two.
