After winning six of 22 starts in Singapore, including a victory over 1600m on the final day of racing at Kranji last Oct 3, Te Akau Ben has quickly transitioned into a force to be reckoned with in Malaysia.

Following a first-up fourth in a Metro A sprint over 1100m four weeks ago, the Tavistock gelding quickly stepped it up with a seven-length trashing of his rivals in another Metro A race, but this time over a more suitable trip of 1600m.

It was a astonishing win, considering that he was up against the likes of Xena, Mega Gems, last start winners Pacific Victory and Family Delight, and Dragon Claw. But the seven-year-old left them standing in the end.

There was a line of three vying for the early lead with Te Akau Ben tucked nicely on the rails on the inside of Dragon Claw and Pacific Victory.

Dragon Claw eventually took charge and led from Pacific Victory at the halfway mark, with RS Dream third and Te Akau Ben easing back to run fourth ahead of Mega Gems.

Pacific Victory headed Dragon Claw into the straight with Te Akau Ben in close attendance. The front three were in a line at the 400m with Pacific Victory slightly in the lead.

Te Akau Ben finally gained the upperhand coming to the 200m and soon quickened strides and began to draw away, leaving the rest struggling in his wake to win as he liked.

Pacific Victory, who won twice in three appearances since coming over from Singapore, held on for second, with last year’s Coronation Cup winner finishing third.

“It was a strong win in a very fast time (1min 34.50secs),” said trainer Simon Dunderdale.

The winning time was just 0.53 second outside the course record set by Black Thorn in 2022.

“Stepping up from 1100m to 1600m was a bit of a worry but Te Akau Ben showed his class.”

“My instruction was to jump well and get some cover,” said jockey Khaw Chun Kit.

“Fortunately for me, some others were keen to get the front so I could take a box seat.

“Coming to the straight, I gave him daylight and he just went. He won with plenty in hand and I am sure he will win more races.”

Te Akau Ben was purchased for NZ$115,000 as a yearling and was placed in his only start in New Zealand before coming to Singapore.