Carey conquers Hareeba Stakes in 2026 with Recon’s late surge

Local handler Pat Carey has rid himself of the longstanding Hareeba Stakes curse as Recon produced a spectacular finishing kick to prevail at Mornington.

For years, the Listed Hareeba Stakes (1200m) had eluded Carey despite persistent attempts, such as the 2006 second place with Kelthorpe and third by Dan Zephyr a decade later.

Another 10 years elapse, granting the stable of Pat Carey and Harris Walker the signature sprint on Mornington Cup Day via Recon.

Ridden by Patrick Moloney, the $4.80 shot Recon stormed to a 1-½ length success ahead of $4.40 top pick La Fracas, followed half a length back by $10 Pop Award in third.

“This race has been a bit of a thorn in my side,” Carey said.

“We’ve had plenty of goes at this race, so it’s nice to win this race today.

“I’ve run a number of placings in it but Recon has always shown good ability.

“Steve Watkins, who owns him and bred him, always felt he was one of his better horses he has had and he’s had a number of good horses including Abaridy who won a Caulfield Guineas.

“He got shuffled back to nearly last at one point just before the corner, but Pat didn’t panic and brought him out wide and gave him a clear run.

“He’s done nothing wrong since coming down to Melbourne, and he’s got a bit bigger and bit stronger. He’s still a lightly raced horse and he’s still learning his trade and open to good improvement.”

Upon transferring to Mornington after the Epsom Training Centre’s closure last century, Carey acquired the stalls previously occupied by Ken Newman, trainer of Hareeba.

“When Kenny wound down his training operation, I took over his stalls and I daresay the stall Recon sits in everyday is Hareeba’s old stall,” Carey said.

Carey plans to digest the Saturday result before eyeing Recon’s future targets, with six victories in 11 starts to his name.

“I haven’t thought about anything other than today,” Carey said.

“He’s a lightly raced horse and there’s lots of races for a horse like him this year, next year and hopefully the year after.”

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