Photo: Race Images South
Consistent performer Sir Albert (Savabeel) found his way to the top step of the podium at Riccarton on Saturday when he held out a determined bid from race favourite Hakkinen to secure victory in the Listed Pavilion Now Open Spring Classic (2000m).
The Terri Rae-prepared runner went into the race off the back of a runner-up finish over 1600m at Ashburton and was cherry ripe for his tilt at successive victories in the race after winning in 2025.
Rider Leah Hemi made good use of a handy barrier to have the son of Savabeel sitting fifth and one off the fence throughout before charging into contention with 400m to run.
Hemi had her mount trucking nicely with a full head of steam and while Hakkinen challenged gamely over the final 200m he never looked like being caught as he went to the line a length in front of the gallant runner-up with Court of Appeal charging into third after being slightly held up early in the run home.
Hemi was confident approaching the home turn although when she got to the front so early in the run home she knew she was in for a battle.
“He travelled into the race nicely, but when he was in front all I was thinking was it is a long way down that straight,” Hemi said.
“We got into a perfect spot during the running, and the tempo was good although I thought it may have been a little stronger.
“He always goes through a flat spot around the 600m, so I had a growl at him, and he picked up the bit and travelled strongly from there.
“He can sustain a good gallop, but I could see the shadow of Hakkinen getting closer, so I was watching that then the winning post and hoping it came up first.
“He is really going well and took a wee while to pull up round the back straight. He is going to the TAB Mile, where he ran second, and I think he is going just as well this year.”
Sir Albert holds a nomination for the Gr.3 TAB Mile (1600m) at Riccarton on 11 November where he is currently rated an $8 Fixed Odds chance.
Sir Albert was bred by Waikato Stud, whose principal Mark Chittick remained in the ownership after the son of Savabeel was passed in during the 2020 National Weanling Sale on Gavelhouse Plus. From a 36-start career, Sir Albert has recorded nine wins, 13 placings and stakes earnings in excess of $504,000.
