Local runner Perry Mason dished out a dashing display of steeplechasing as he led all the way to take out his second AHD Hawke’s Bay Steeplechase (4800m) on Saturday.

The Paul Nelson and Corrina MacDougal-trained Zed gelding had been struggling to recapture his best form over the bigger fences however a return to his home base at Hastings worked the oracle as rider Aaron Kuru adopted a take no prisoners approach throughout the 4800m contest.

Niggled at by Des De Jeu and Napoleon at different times during the race, Perry Mason attacked his fences and never put a foot wrong as he held out a late run from Napoleon to collect his ninth career victory and second in the race after scoring in similar fashion last season.

Co-trainer Paul Nelson was delighted to see his veteran galloper back to his best for the race.

“It’s a huge thrill as we have had a fair bit of trouble getting him back to where he was,” he said.

“Corinna has done a marvellous job and she kept saying he was right.

“His work had been really good and it’s just a pity we couldn’t have all his owners here. They’ll be at the local pub watching so they will be having some fun there.”

Aaron Kuru celebrates after his victory aboard Perry Mason. Photo credit: Trish Dunell

Kuru was a little sheepish when quizzed about the extended salute he gave after crossing the finishing line.

“That’s a massive thrill as I had underrated him coming in to the race,” he said.

“That’s why I’ll probably never be a trainer but full credit to Paul as he believed in the horse and kept telling me to stick with him.

“I did, so I really have to thank Paul and Corrina for that one.

“It was a bit similar to last year as every time they let me button off (the pace) he got a bit of a rest and he was very good.

“It’s a bit of a shame there isn’t really anyone here to see it but it is great to win on a Group One day.”

The lightly raced eleven-year-old has now won nine of his 61 starts and takes his prizemoney earnings over the $200,000 mark. – NZ Racing Desk