Skew Wiff reigns supreme in Tarzino Trophy
Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, trainers for Te Akau Racing, had reason to celebrate at Hastings on Saturday as they added another feather to their cap after Tokyo Tycoon and Quintessa’s impressive stakes victories.
Their day got even better when the progressive mare Skew Wiff managed to outshine her recent rival, Dragon Leap, securing the Group 1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m).
Skew Wiff, a daughter of the renowned stallion Savabeel, bred and owned by Waikato Stud, had suffered a late defeat by Dragon Leap in the Stud-sponsored Group 2 Foxbridge Plate (1200m) just a month prior.
However, this time, she turned the tables with a stellar ride by Opie Bosson.
Bosson made the most of a favorable barrier draw (4), positioning the four-year-old mare behind the leaders Pier and Callsign Mav.
It became evident that she was in control of the race as early as 800 metres from the finish.
With 250m to go, Bosson urged Skew Wiff to take the lead, and she held off a late charge from Dragon Leap and another talented four-year-old mare, Legarto, to claim her first stakes win and secure her third career victory.
Notably, she had finished second twice at Group One level during her three-year-old season.
2023 Group 1 Tarzino Trophy Replay – Skew Wiff | J: Opie Bosson | T: Mark Walker & Sam Bergerson
Sam Bergerson, savoring his maiden Group One victory in his debut year of training for Te Akau Racing, expressed his excitement and gratitude.
He acknowledged the incredible opportunity he had, training under Te Akau and working with exceptional horses, thanks to the support of figures like David Ellis, Karyn Fenton-Ellis, and Mark Walker, along with the backing of esteemed studs like Waikato Stud. He humbly thanked his team for their dedication.
Bergerson also lauded Opie Bosson’s exceptional ride, emphasizing how it contributed to their victory.
He stated, “It certainly helps having him on your side.
“He got her into a lovely spot, and the last thing we said was to hold her up as long as possible as she has a short, sharp sprint. I thought Dragon Leap was coming to get her like he did last time, and I was hoping not again. She is not very big but just a tough little mare.”
Opie Bosson, who had a remarkable day with victories on Tokyo Tycoon in the Listed El Roca – Sir Colin Meads Trophy (1200m) and Quintessa in the Group 3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m), couldn’t hide his satisfaction.
He commended Skew Wiff’s focus and determination during the race and praised her for maintaining her lead despite the late challenges. He acknowledged her progress, describing her as a “work in progress.”
Skew Wiff’s victory marked a significant milestone as she became the 32nd individual Group One winner for Waikato Stud’s illustrious stallion Savabeel, who is currently in his 19th season at the prestigious Matamata nursery.