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Leading South Island rider Samantha Wynne combined with one of her favourite horses when she guided Miss Three Stars to a comfortable victory in the Preston Russell Law sponsored Wairio Cup on Sunday.

Sent out favourite for the day’s feature event Miss Three Stars never looked in any danger as Wynne had her relaxed throughout the contest. Asked for an effort as the small field bunched in the approach to the home turn the talented seven-year-old boomed over the top of her rivals in the final 200 metres to score a convincing victory.

The win was the 10th of her 52-start career with all bar one being in the hands of Wynne. It was also her first victory since the 2016 Gr. 3 Winter Cup at Riccarton, a race which trainer Tommy Beckett is keen to win again.

“We knew she was pretty right today and with the wetter track and Sam back on she looked a big chance,” he said.

“She just hasn’t quite had the tracks to suit of late but the rain we got played right into our hands for this one.”

Beckett also acknowledged the influence that Wynne has had on the mare.

“That’s her 9th win with Sam on which is quite something,” he admitted.

“She is a very quirky mare but Sam get on with her so well. We’ve tried quite a few other riders but it just seems like she will only run for Sam.

“She’s off for a two week break now then we will bring her back and get her ready for a 1600 metre race at Riccarton. After that she can go to Ashburton and then Oamaru which should have her cherry ripe for the Winter Cup at Riccarton in August.

“If she is in this sort of form and gets the right track we might just be able to make it back to back wins in the race which would be very special.”