New Zealand-bred five-year-old Diego illustrated his versatility when he charged home from last in the field of seven at the 220m mark to snatch a thrilling last-stride head victory over Lawrence in the 1730m GPHR Sprint at Gloucester Park on Friday night.
Diego, prepared by Gary Hall Snr, had set the pace at five of his first eight wins in Western Australia. But from out wide at barrier six and with noted frontrunner Mirragon, the $1.60 favourite, drawn perfectly at barrier one, Dylan Egerton-Green wisely did not bustle Diego in the early stages.
Diego, fourth favourite at $8.60, saved every inch of ground as he remained on the pegs in last place until Egerton-Green switched him off the inside approaching the home turn and the gelding flew home to beat $7 chance Lawrence, who had taken the lead at the 60m mark. Culpeka ($7) fought on for third after racing without cover, with Mirragon wilting to fourth.
Diego, a Bettors Delight gelding and a winner of three races in New Zealand, now has had 37 starts for 11 wins, nine placings and $125,817. He is a full-brother to Mister Bushido (78 starts for 12 wins, 22 placings and $164,175).
by Ken Casellas