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Endless Drama wins U S Navy Flag Foxbridge Plate Group 2, NZ$100,000 at Te Rapa, 1200m.
Overlooked in pre-race anticipation despite a last start third in the Stradbroke Handicap (Gr 1, 1400m) in June, Endless Drama showed his class and fitness here, taking over inside the 100m and having enough in reserve to hold on well for career win five, including three at Group 2 level.
He was second into stride but drifted to sixth, one out. Nearing the straight entrance he swung wider and went after the leaders.
From the 200m he surged, ranged alongside the leaders then took over inside the 100m, and three quarters of a length in front, was never in danger of defeat.
A super run from Sydney-bound favourite Te Akau Shark who settled second last from the 800m, went widest from the 500m and kept up a strong run the length of the straight, eating into the lead with some big strides late.
Comeback sat a close up fifth (rails) from the 600m, up to second upon straightening, co-led at the 100m and kept on solidly for third.
Melody Belle was fourth, one out, from the 600m, still fourth at the top of the straight and tried hard to the line, fighting back late for fourth from Helena Baby who from third turning in also never gave up, losing fourth just short of the post.