Nechako best in New Westminster

VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Coming from slightly off the pace, Nechako scored a convincing 2 3-4 length victory over Thesaratogaexpress in the $54,159 New Westminster Stakes for two-year-olds at Hastings Sunday.

With Rohan Singh aboard, Nechako had what can only be described as a perfect trip. Sitting just behind a three horse speed duel for the first half-mile,

Nechako made a strong move to engage the leaders approaching the quarter-pole. He took the lead mid-stretch and then drew clear under left handed urging from Singh.

Trained by his owner Sid Martin, Nechacko covered the 6 1-2 furlongs in 1:18.70. He paid $5.50 as the second choice in the wagering behind Thesaratogaexpress.

Thesaratogaexpress ran an interesting race. After battling for the lead for the first four-furlongs it appeared he was going to finish out of the money when he started dropping out of it at the top of the stretch. However, he fought back gamely and held off Moneys Defense who had made a strong move from well off the pace.