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Pump Up The Volume wins 2016 C’church Casino 153rd N.Z.Cup Group 3 NZ$250,000 at Riccarton Park (NZ), 3200m.
Off a last start win in the Feilding Gold Cup (Listed, 2100m) Pump Up The Volume lasted best in a thrilling finish over the 3200m. He slid back to third last (with cover) with more than a circuit to run. Rider Kelly McCulloch eased off the fence down the back with three behind them then mid way around the bend she began threading through the field, then wider and wider to be on the outside of the course upon straightening. Relentlessly, they ground their way to share the lead then fought bravely to the line, holding on by a half head.
Perfect Start was a clear last down the back and at the 1200m. She moved wide near the last corner and found a clear run deep in the track into the straight then surged through to share the lead at the 150m. To the line she tried hard but was nutted in the last stride.
Imperium was well back early, moved up along the fence and was handy turning in. She took a narrow lead at the 200m and held on best of the rest for a game third.