The Craig Widdison-trained Purrpussful broke through for her first victory in just over 18 months at Wagga on Tuesday.
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The mare settled back in the field but produced a powerful finish out wide on the track to claim the $19,600 Benchmark Handicap, (1400m).
“She was nearly going to be sacked if she didn’t win today so she has earned a reprieve,” Widdison said.
“Her work at home had been great but I was disappointed the way she had been racing.
“Being a six-year-old mare, you don’t want to be making too many excuses for her but last start they watered the track and then they got rain on the day and she just doesn’t like that at all.
“So the run wasn’t as bad as it looked on paper.
“I still wasn’t going in real confident but she got a good ride today and showed a glimpse of her ability.”
Widdison notched a winning double after Ruby Skye claimed the $21,560 Benchmark 66 Handicap (1800m) with Mathew Cahill aboard.
It was the mares first win this preparation after racing in much stronger company recently.
“I’ve just been trying to find a restricted race for her in town but she hasn’t had much luck lately,” he said.
“We have had a couple of cracks in town but this race presented at the right time.
“After having no luck all preparation, I thought it would be nice to give her a run at Wagga and give her a bit of a confidence boost before we head back to the city.
“I think she is more than capable of a city win, it’s just a matter of finding the right race.”
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