The Hassler (NZ) Wins Championship Stakes

Karaka graduate The Hassler (NZ) (Shocking) earned a Group 2 reward for his toughness and consistency when he won the $100,000 Valachi Downs Championship Stakes (2100m) at Ellerslie on Saturday.

Ridden by Vinnie Colgan for trainer Roger James, The Hassler was prominently placed throughout the race. He was challenged and even headed in the straight, but he showed great determination to claw his way back to the lead. He stretched out strongly in the last 100 metres to win by a length and a quarter.

The race was marred by a frightening accident involving the winner’s stablemate Romantic Maid, but nothing should be taken away from The Hassler’s courageous and classy performance.

“It was a very resolute performance,” James said. “He was under a ride before the turn but he kept fighting and was too strong for them. It was a great win.

“He’s won four races since January, and not many three-year-olds do that in their whole season.”

Purchased by the Robt Dawe Agency for $56,000 at the 2014 Festival Sale, The Hassler has now won four races and more than $95,560 in stakes.

Fast-finishing second placegetter Zambezi Warrior (NZ) is also a Karaka graduate, purchased by Te Akau Racing principal David Ellis for $75,000 at the 2014 Premier Sale.