King Mahuta wins $100,000 Broome Cup feature

King Mahuta proved too strong in Saturday’s Broome Cup, finishing more than two lengths clear in the Kimberley’s richest race in front of a big crowd.

The five-year-old gelding trained by Brett Pope and ridden by Elisha Whittington jumped from barrier 11 carrying 54kg, holding off a late challenge by Gambler’s Gold to secure the $100,000 feature.

Gambler’s Gold, prepared by Darryn Pateman and ridden by Kyra Yuill, finished second, while Civvy Street for trainers S & J Casey and jockey Bonnie Palise filled third.

Zadar Rock ridden by Michael Heagney and trained by Dean Cocivera ran on for fourth.

The official margin was 2.39 lengths, with just a nose separating second and third.

In the $30,000 Willie Creek Pearl Classic, Commissions, trained by Kevin Collins and ridden by Michael Heagney, prevailed narrowly over Ima Wild Girl. Mocha Dream was third, just under two lengths off the winner.

Meanwhile, Charina Townsend won fashions on the field with her bright yellow and blue dress with matching yellow sun hat.

The Broome Cup round capped off a lively racing season at the Broome Turf Club, where big crowds turned out to every meet.

Racing and Gaming Minister Paul Papalia was on hand, with the State Government also confirming a $2.6 million upgrade for the course facilities.