The Heckler Wins Karaka Million

 
23 Jan 2009


The Heckler (Lucky Owners x Comedy Cafe), part-owned by Sir Patrick Hogan, has won New Zealand's richest two-year-old race, the $1 million Karaka Million (1200m) at Ellerslie on Sunday.

Ridden by Australian jockey Michael Rodd, The Heckler burst home in the final 200 metres of the race to snatch an impressive one-and-a-half length victory over Australian visitor Sarge In Charge.

The Heckler is owned by Sir Patrick in partnership with Alastair Sutherland, Tony Timpson and Peter Walker. This same combination raced last season's Group 1 winning 2yo Fully Fledged.

He was purchased at last year's Karaka Select Sale for $70,000 from the draft of Woodridge Farm.

The successful trainers are Murray and Bjorn Baker who have enjoyed an outstanding season.

Murray Baker said The Heckler had battled shin-soreness all season and has often been to the swimming pool to keep the weight off his legs while being worked.

Race favourite Katie Lee, also owned by Sir Patrick, never got into the race and finished only eighth.