Tough galloper Wild Planet continued Team Hawkes’ successful Caulfield carnival with a narrow victory in the Group Three Moonga Stakes (1400m).
Co-trainer Wayne Hawkes paid homage to the horse’s tenacity after his win.
“He’s a pure racehorse. He’s not the best horse ever but his will to win is amazing,” Hawkes said.
Wild Planet was given a perfect ride from Hugh Bowman who settled him behind the leaders and managed to get him home in a photo.
Wild Planet ($5.50) defeated Morrissy ($17) by a short head with Fifty Stars ($12) another 2-1/2 lengths away.