Any doubts about Justa Charlie’s stamina were dispelled by the nine-year-old at Hastings on Saturday.

Pre-race, trainer Harvey Wilson said the distance of the Simon’s 50th Birthday Hawke’s Bay Steeplechase (4800m) was his only reservation, but it wasn’t an issue with son of Shinko King producing a stout display to take the honours.

Justa Charlie finished runner-up in the Waikato Steeplechase (3900m) and a run on the flat at Hawera eight days ago had him at the top of his game.

“It’s a real thrill, just awesome,” Wilson said. “He’s raced by some great people and they let us do our own thing.

“My wife Ann does most of the work and I just do as I’m told.”

Justa Charlie, whose owners include former trainer John Boon, settled back in the field before regular partner Will Gordon urged him closer 800m from home. 

They challenged at the final flight and the gelding stayed on strongly for his third victory over the big fences.

“Will gave him a great ride,” said Wilson, who represented the New Zealand equestrian team at three Olympics Games.

A dogged Justa Charlie scored by a long neck from the topweight Wise Men Say, who conceded the winner five kilos. 

Chocolate Fish came on well from the back of the field to finish third with Kings Deep, who was in or near the lead all the way, a fighting fourth ahead of Thenamesbond.

The favourite Max, a stablemate of the runner-up, settled last and he made steady ground for sixth without ever looking a winning chance.

Video replay: Justa Charlie winning the Simon’s 50th Birthday Hawke’s Bay Steeplechase (4800m