Churchillian underlined her enduring class with a dominant display at Tauranga Racecourse on Saturday, capturing the $80,000 Listed Team Wealleans Tauranga Classic (1600m) and extending her already impressive black-type record with another polished victory.
Churchillian wins Tauranga Classic.
The rising seven-year-old mare, by Churchill, travelled comfortably throughout before asserting her authority in the straight to secure another notable success. It was a performance that highlighted the consistency she has maintained over several seasons and reinforced her standing among New Zealand’s accomplished middle-distance performers.
Already a winner of the Group Three Anniversary Handicap and the Rotorua Stakes, Churchillian has now compiled an outstanding record of 11 wins and one placing from 27 starts, with career earnings climbing to $406,890. Purchased for $100,000 from Pencarrow Stud’s Book 1 draft at Karaka in 2021, she has more than justified that investment through a career built on durability and quality.
Her early racing days hinted at significant ability, producing seven victories from her first 13 appearances, including the prestigious Anniversary Handicap at Trentham in January 2024. She has continued to perform at a high level, proving that age has done little to diminish her competitive edge.
Jockey Sam Collett praised the mare’s enthusiasm and willingness after another commanding display.
“Tony and his team have done an amazing job to keep her up and keep her happy in what has been a busy prep for her,” Collett said.
“She just has that zest for life, which she showed again today. When I asked her for some more gas, she dug really deep.
“When I asked her to kick at the top of the straight, she was off and was always going to find the line.”
With trainer Tony Pike overseas, assistant trainer Ryan Stacey oversaw Churchillian’s preparation and was delighted with the result after another consistent effort.
“She has been going so well, and we’ve just had to keep getting the work into her since her last run,” Stacey said.
“She is just so consistent and is holding that form.
“Sam got her out of the gates well, controlled the race and she has brained them.”
The Churchillian wins Tauranga Classic performance was complemented by a strong showing from fellow Karaka graduates. Kaimai Queen (Atlante) filled second after being purchased for just $3,000, adding further valuable black type to a career that has now earned more than $133,000.
Thooza (Almanzor) finished third, while Tristar (Exceedance) claimed fourth, completing a clean sweep of the first four places for graduates of the renowned Karaka sales. Thooza was bought for $155,000, with Tristar commanding $220,000 as a yearling.
The latest Churchillian wins Tauranga Classic success adds another significant chapter to the mare’s outstanding career. With her consistency, toughness and finishing power remaining intact, she continues to reward her connections and stands as one of New Zealand racing’s most dependable performers.
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