Bak Da Master Masterful

Super fit Bak Da Master (6 g Mastercraftsman - Bak Da Princess, by Danske) recorded his fourth victory during this campaign with a massive performance in the $27,500 Tricklebanks Rating 74 2200 metres on Saturday at Awapuni.

Having won two of his last three starts in hurdle events, with a second between in a Rating 74 2100 metres at Te Rapa, Bak Da Master was preparing for the Open Hurdle (3000m) on Sunday at Wanganui, but the meeting was cancelled.

A change of tack mattered little for the relative of dual Group 1 winning stable-mate Te Akau Shark (Rip Van Winkle) and he delivered in a cakewalk.

Jockey Sam Weatherley secured a lovely spot three back on the outer before releasing the big chestnut around runners approaching the home turn and he turned the event into a procession when racing away to continue terrific form. 

Following a win and second at his only two course attempts, Bak Da Master had nearly six lengths on his rivals at the line, running the 2200 metres in 2:18.6 on Dead6 footing and he shortened from fixed odds: $7.50 & $2.60 to pay $5.80 & $2.00 on the NZ TAB tote. 

“He's relaxing better in his races, done a really good job since starting jumping and his head carriage is a lot better,” said trainer Jamie Richards. 

“Who knows what we'll do with him now but the main thing is that he's racing really well and that gives us options. Basically, he's needed time to strengthen but now developing into a good staying type. 

“It was a nice ride by Sam (Weatherley). He's in good form, too, and the team at the Main Stable are doing a great job with him.”

A half-brother to Group 1 Easter Handicap winner Pondarosa Miss (High Chaparral) and Group 1 placed multiple stakes winner Ecuador (High Chaparral), Bak Da Master was purchased by David Ellis CNZM for $90,000 at the 2016 NZB Premier Yearling Sale, out of the draft Leanach Lodge draft, for the Te Akau Master Syndicate. 

“He is so fit this horse after his hurdle wins and it was a very exciting race to watch, as he just left them to it,” Ellis said. 

“He's from a slower maturing family that keeps getting better with age and Jamie has done a great job mixing his races on the flat and over hurdles. It's been the making of the horse, really, and the owners are getting the rewards.

“On that performance, he could go to the next level now and be competitive in Cups' races. 

“Our track work rider and jumps' jockey Michael Roustoby has been instrumental in his tuition. He's been a fantastic help and a very important member of the team. He's done a great job.”

It was the 44^thwin for trainer Jamie Richards, with only a quarter of the season completed, and gives rise to chasing the NZ record of 143.

Last season, when winning the Premiership and Champion Trainer titles, Richards prepared 17 stakes' winners in New Zealand, adding three Group 1 wins in Australia, with 11 of his 20 Group & Listed wins coming in Group 1 races, and a total of 104 wins for the season. 

Bak Da Master was strapped by Kate Belsham. “What a horse,” she said.

Photo credit - www.raceimages.co.nz

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