WAGGA trainer Chris Hardy enjoyed his first winner in over four years at Albury on Monday.
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Hardy struck success when Zakeriz ($21) ran down well-backed favourite Super Doutes ($1.95) to win the Ace Radio 2AY Maiden Plate (1175m).
It was Hardy's first winner since April 2016, a period of which he has only had 16 starters in.
Zakeriz was having just his second start back from a tendon injury, where he spent 12 months in the paddock.
Hardy was happy to have the horse back fit and firing.
"All wins are good," Hardy said.
"He had a tendon problem and had 12 months in the paddock.
"It's been a very long and slow build up this time in."
Zakeriz was bred by Hardy and Richard Thackeray.
Zakeriz was only beaten a length and a half first-up at Wagga and Hardy entered the race with some confidence.
"I wasn't sure about the wet but on his gallop on Saturday morning I thought he'd be a big show," he said.
Richard Bensley rode Zakeriz to victory.
It was a good day for Wagga trainers with Trevor Sutherland also enjoying success with mudlark Gentleman Max ($3.60) in the Buller Wines Open Handicap (1600m). It gave Julia Presits her first professional win.
Albury trainer Donna Scott enjoyed a winning double on her home track with both Star of Tennessee ($1.30) and Hazel's Diary ($7.00) scoring.
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