Champion Thoroughbreds | Champion Thoroughbreds News 64566 Sea Strike Fights Back In Wagga Thriller

Sea Strike showcased trademark resolve to post his fifth career victory at Wagga on Sunday, prevailing in a competitive Benchmark 82 over 2000 metres.

The five-year-old son of Sea The Stars, having his first run in a month following a seventh placing in the Wangaratta Cup, was the subject of strong late market support and duly justified that confidence with a determined staying performance.

Drawn in barrier two in the field of eight, jockey Shaun Guymer was intent on executing pre-race instructions to keep the big-striding 17-hand gelding away from the fence, where he can have a tendency to over-race. Settling one off the rail with cover, Sea Strike travelled comfortably in the early stages before the tempo slackened noticeably mid-race.

Sensing the change in pace, Guymer made a decisive move to roll forward and sit outside the leader, ensuring a more genuine staying test — a move that proved pivotal as the race developed.

Under pressure in the straight, Sea Strike appeared headed on multiple occasions, but dug deep to rally along the inside, displaying admirable tenacity to reclaim the lead and edge clear late. In a stirring finish, he fought back to score by a narrow margin of 0.19 lengths.

Trainer Ben Brisbourne was full of praise for the gelding’s courage post-race.

“Very proud of his efforts today — not many horses will get headed in the straight and fight back to win. It’s not something you can teach a horse,” Brisbourne said.

The victory was a rewarding result for a large and enthusiastic ownership group including Mperezive Racing, Mr R K Sweeney, Mrs T R Sweeney, Mr G C Green, Mr D C Harrop, Mr D H Long, Castagna, Mr P J Dunn, Mr G Seto, Jabradtral, Mr C D Hands, Sedgewyn, Mr T S Fisher, Mr J G Codner, Dream Team, Dr M Healy, 2023 1in5 Club and Mr S Nagaratnam.

Sea Strike’s success also marked the 26th win of the season for Champion, who continue to build momentum towards a potential season-best tally.