The G3 mile was contested on an Awapuni track that was between a gluey holding bog and regulation heavy so made for some huge margins throughout the day from first to last. The times said very sticky and testing while being wide was no negative as the card progressed. The winner easily was a noted swimmer Danza Lad that raced handy wide and improved deeper near the home turn before surging clear in the gelatinous mud. It was the tenth win in thirty-nine starts for the 7yo gelding and seven of those have now come at the mile. Danza Lad now has won twice at G3 and once at Listed level. Looser footing would have suited him more but being so fit he got through it today with aplomb. Authentic Paddy fought well for second after racing close while the clear favourite Spoke To Carlo ran home strongly but too late after settling down second last. Our Gazza, also a noted lover of loose heavy ground, ran home solidly late for fourth showing the footing was not ideal but he could get through it. Duffers Creeks battled well for fifth and Thorn Prince under his weight was okay for sixth closer in along the slower lanes clearly come this time of the day. Taurus was poor under his weight considering the form he was in while The Filly showed for the third time now that a mile is too far. North And South a backrunner was poor but she needs it as loose as possible. Spring has not arrived in New Zealand a few weeks into the season with a poultice of wet tracks still the common track denominator. Therefore this race and result only has a bearing should more wet holding tracks happen this spring and summer.