Nash Rawiller produced another trademark front-running masterclass to guide Run Harry Run to a gutsy victory in the Kia Ora Bloodlines to Headlines Handicap (1500m) at Rosehill.
The champion jockey judged the race to perfection aboard the Lindsay Park galloper, extracting two determined efforts from the gelding to fend off a late challenge from Narbold.
After leading throughout, Run Harry Run ($3 favourite) looked to have his measure taken when Williamsburg ($16) drew alongside early in the straight. The favourite responded to edge clear before again lifting under Rawiller’s urgings to deny the fast-finishing Narbold ($6) by a half-head, with Williamsburg three-quarters of a length away in third.
Rawiller said he always believed his mount had another effort in reserve despite concerns over the 1500-metre trip.
“I knew I still had a kick,” Rawiller said.
“They (connections) were a touch worried with the 1500 that he could be a touch vulnerable. I just tried to travel in a beautiful rhythm. I wanted to go for him flat out when I wanted to, and thankfully he dug deep when he needed to.
“He came up in great order. The way the track is racing probably helped me a touch. Apart from jumping on his Melbourne leg on the corner post, he did everything spot-on.”
Lindsay Park racing manager Anthony Feroce said Rawiller’s handling of the horse was instrumental in securing the victory.
“He’s a horse that has never run a really strong 1500, and I mentioned that to him before the race. I think he kept that in mind. It was a great ride,” Feroce said.
Prepared by Ben, Will and JD Hayes, Run Harry Run added another metropolitan success to his record while giving Rawiller a riding double on the Rosehill program.
The champion hoop had earlier partnered Matthew Dunn-trained Wayburn to victory in the Highway Handicap (1200m).
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