Racing: Auckland Cup on agenda for winning Irish import

The staying qualities of Irish import Strike One came to the fore as 3200m racing returned to Rosehill on Saturday.

In contrast to recent trends reducing race distances, the Stayers' Cup was increased from 2400 to 3200m and attracted a field of 10.

Man of the moment Chris Waller had two runners, Bellagio Wynn ($10) who found the task too great and Strike One ($3.50 fav) who found the job just to his liking.

With Nash Rawiller aboard, Strike One was posted three wide for the first half of the race but eventually his jockey managed to get him in closer and give him a breather.

With many rivals tiring in the straight, Strike One set out after leader Twin Wing ($10) with Lang ($19) in pursuit. Strike One had too much in hand and went on to beat 2008 Sydney Cup placegetter Lang by 1 lengths with Twin Wing 5 lengths away third.

"I was a bit concerned going round the first circuit when he was wide but Nash didn't panic, he backed himself and got a nice position," Waller said.

"You never know if they are going to run the distance until they actually do it. But they must have had an opinion of him as a stayer in Ireland because he started first-up over 2000m on a heavy track.

"It's a great thrill and it's great for the owners who have invested in these European horses.

"We haven't targeted the top level over there but we will go back this year and maybe aim up a bit."

Waller said the A$150,000 Queensland Cup (3200m) on July 10 was likely to be Strike One's next race.

"Now that we know he can get the distance it looks ideal," he said.

The Melbourne Cup may be too rich and too soon but Waller has not ruled out the Auckland Cup.

The group one staying test in March was won this year by Sydney stayer Zavite.

- AAP