Savvy Coup wins 2018 Al Basti Equiworld NZ Oaks Group 1 NZ$400,000 at Trentham (NZ), 2400m.
Favourite Savvy Coup had too many guns and controlled the race over the final 100m for a convincing win, her fifth from 12 starts and third stakes. She was midfield with a lap to run and rider Chris Johnson had her racing comfortably down the back straight.
At the 800m Johnson made his move three wide to move closer to the pace, easing into fourth four wide turning in. At the top of the straight they took over, were headed briefly at the 250m but Johnson had plenty in reserve and they drew clear, having a length and a quarter to spare at the line.
A nice effort from Contessa Vanessa who had a lovely run, one out and one back around the bend, moved closer before the straight and led briefly at the 250m but the winner was too strong.
Milseain was midfield down the back, in behind them into the straight but did not really get going until late, finishing well without looking like winning for a solid third from Caricature who was second most of the way, co led at the 400m but could not find any more, battling away to hold fourth.
