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Shuka wins 2014 Rydges Captain Cook Stakes Group 1 NZ$200,000 at Trentham (NZ), 1600m.
Unbeaten in three starts on the track, the win by Shuka was a tribute to the training skills of Peter & Dawn Williams, coming off a 63-day break to record back-to-back wins in the race. Able to secure a nice spot three back on the outer, from an awkward draw in barrier eight, Shuka warmed into proceedings at the 300m, was headed to his outside by Nashville, but fought hard in tight quarters for victory.
Slowest of the eight to begin, Nashville followed Shuka in running. Nashville quickened the better of the two to lead at the 200m but could not withstand his rival.
From the trail, race favourite Puccini finally worked clear two off the rail at the 200m and put in a bold bid to finish close up in third.
The first three had a margin over fourth placed Julinsky Prince, who ranged to challenge on straightening after situating in fourth.
I Do finished fifth after travelling outside the leader Pure Champion.
Weregoingtogetcha made good ground late for sixth, and Pure Champion was seventh.