The performance basically wrote itself this week. Billed as a match race, the Grant Plumbing Wellington Steeplechase ended up being an easy watch for West Coast’s connections after unfortunate interference to main rival, The Cossack. The 5500m feature steeplechase around Trentham’s figure-eight course was as always, a spectacle to watch. A patient ride from Shaun Fannin saw West Coast improve into the race at the perfect moment as the field headed for the course proper around the bend. One of the more exciting steeplechasers New Zealand has had in recent years put in another flawless jumping performance and was the toughest stayer on the day. Bring on next month’s Grand National Steeplechase at Riccarton as West Coast looks to defend his crown and trainer Mark Oulaghan bids for his 8th win in the race.