Tough little mare Ististar along with Michelle Brooks (nee Wenn) went back-to-back in the Tauranga Classic for Stephen McKee in 2008. The pair had a great partnership, with Michelle saluting five times in Ististaar's 10 career wins. She almost pulled off the Tauranga Classic hat-trick when running second in 2009, but would go on to nab Group success in the Gr.3 Cuddle Stakes four months later.