Crystal Duke Romps Home in CJC Spring Classic

The Kevin Hughes trained Crystal Duke made the Listed Christchurch Casino Spring Classic (2000m) his own on Saturday after destroying the field by over four lengths at Riccarton.

Ridden by jockey Danielle Johnson at the light weight of 53 kilograms, Crystal Duke (NZ) (Bachelor Duke x Starfire Glow) showed that the rain which hit Riccarton Park was of little concern as he made a four-and-a-quarter-length statement to his rivals heading for the New Zealand Cup (3200m) on 12 November.

His first win at black-type level, the five-year-old came into the race with just one start under his belt at Riccarton where he ran a good fresh up fourth to Zabene (Zabeel) over 1800 metres.

Crystal Duke is the fifth stakes winner by Bachelor Duke - who stands at the Oaks Stud - with Saturday's victory his seventh in 28 starts.

Bred by Bill Borrie, Crystal Duke was a $20,000 purchase by Kevin & Pam Hughes from Richfield Thoroughbred Farm at the 2008 Karaka Select Sale. He has now won over $77,000 in stakes.