Son of Maher wins 2016 Dunedin Casino Dunedin Guineas Listed NZ$50,000 at Wingatui (NZ) 3yo, 1400m.
Favourite Son of Maher followed up his sound second to Dukedom in the Levin Classic (Gr 1, 1600m) last month with this deserved win, his third (first stakes win) in ten starts. Drawn in six, he settled fourth, one off the fence early. Approaching the 600m he ranged up to the leaders three wide and turned in three off the fence tied for the lead. Jockey Chris Johnson sat quietly and held the colt up until the 200m then shook the reins. Son of Maher responded well and gradually edged away to win with something in reserve.
Replique was midfield rounding the turn but lost ground before the home straight where she was equal last down against the fence. She finished well but the winner seemed to have her covered.
Princess Davone saved ground against the fence and was handy to the turn, pulled out one off the fence but struck traffic and had to check then go wider where she rattled home for an unlucky third.
