After being placed in seven of his previous eight starts, Ata Rangi has finally landed the second win of his career.
But the four-year-old had to share the victory when he dead heated with race favourite Telern Lofty over the mile at Melton.
Telern Lofty shot away from the mobile to take the lead, driven confidently by David Miles.
At the bell, the hot pot was still in front, with Anthony Butt keeping the leader in his sights, as he had Ata Rangi one out and two back.
Turning for home, Ata Rangi came home the stronger of the pair and nailed Telern Lofty on the line. The photo finish told the story, and the judge could not separate them.
Main photo: Ata Rangi heads for the finish line.
Ata Rangi now has two wins and nine placings from his 14 career starts, and earnings of more than A$17,000.
On the Australian tote, Ata Rangi paid $3.70 for the win and $1.90 for the place. In New Zealand, Kyle Marshall Racing supporters earned $4.40 and $1.50 at the TAB.
Photo finish
Result
Race 8: April 4, 2025
$6,000 Downunder Sulky 0-1 LTW Pace, 1720m
1= Ata Rangi (Connor Clarke)
1+ Telern Lofty
3 Capitalism
Margins: Dead heat; 4.2m
Times: Mile Rate: 1:56:1 First quarter: 29.7. Second quarter: 30.5. Third quarter: 27.9. Fourth quarter: 28.8..
