By MICHAEL GUERIN
Dennis Wilson is starting to hate New Zealand horses.
Twice this season Wilson has had to watch major race glory snatched from the grasp of his stable star Atitagain by a Kiwi.
As if it wasn't bad enough being beaten a nose by close mate Barry Purdon and Holmes D G in the Miracle Mile last November, he then sat helpless as Yulestar exploded past Atitagain 20m from the line in Saturday night's Interdominion Final.
"You Kiwis, you just keep buggering me," said Wilson.
"I thought I was home at the top of the straight but then when I turned around and saw Yulestar I realised I might be in a bit of trouble."
But Wilson is keen for a rematch.
"I am going to aim him [Atitagain] at the New Zealand Cup. He would love that big [Addington] track."
Tim Butt completed a superb carnival by producing Pocket Me to finish a gutsy third after burning plenty of gas early.
It was the second year running he has won the Trotting Final (Lyell Creek and Take A Moment) before running third in the Pacing Final (Happy Asset last season).
That prompted him to produce a typical Tim Butt understatement.
"I wouldn't mind winning that double one year."
Of the other Kiwis, Holmes D G and Ouch never really got into the race after being well after the early shuffle, although neither impressed.
And drivers Brian Hancock and John Justice were satisfied with their charges Courage Under Fire and Shakamaker.
Hancock said Courage Under Fire had lived up to his name and would be a better horse next season while Justice said Shakamaker was gallant but in hindsight he would have been better driving him for one sprint rather than trying to lead.
Racing: Bugger! Those Kiwis are at it again
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