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25.01.2022 Thursday 17 September at Te Rapa Weather: overcast, track: Dead6, rail: out 5 metres 1.57 p.m. R3 4 Hosel Rocket (5 g Redwood Mrs Pea, by Pentire) Chad Ormsby; won a trial before resuming on Heavy11 in the Maiden 1400 metres on 26 August at Rotorua, and drawn barrier three in the $10,000 Maiden 1600 metres. Although stretched out to 2100 metres, he finished third over 1600 metres in his last campaign and should appreciate better footing. Fixed odds: $21.00 & $5.25.... 2.32 p.m. R4 2 Gus the Maverick (4 g Shamexpress Hollywood Angel, by Dehere) Chad Ormsby; finished fifth resuming at Matamata, and notable when fifth again in the Rating 65 1215 metres on 26 August at Rotorua. Physically and mentally stronger, he won his Maiden over 1400 metres and despite drawing awkwardly (8) appears a top four chance with blinkers on. Fixed odds: $4.60 & $1.80 Pictured 3.41 p.m. R6 4 Run For Cover (3 c Burgundy Fashion Forward, by Pentire) Cameron Lammas; looked good winning a trial in August at Te Teko, done well since, and debuts in the $10,000 Maiden 3YO 1200 metres. His grand-dam, Marie Claire (O’Reilly) was a Listed winner over 1400 metres and Group 1 placed at 1600 metres, and he shows inherent ability to rate a top three chance from barrier seven. Fixed odds: $10.00 & $2.90. 4.18 p.m. R7 6 Wasp (4 m Ocean Park Thimble, by Pins) Cameron Lammas; found Heavy11 too testing when resuming in the Maiden 1100 metres on 26 August at Rotorua, and contests the $10,000 NZB Insurance Pearl Series 1200 metres (eligible $11,500 bonus). Better footing should coincide with an improved performance. Fixed odds: $18.00 & $4.60. 4.56 p.m. R8 11 Glenhope (5 g O’Reilly Sapphire Belle, by Danske) Taiki Yanagida (a1); resumed in the Rating 65 1400 metres on 26 August at Rotorua, and steps up in the $10,000 Rating 65 1600 metres. Although yet to race here, he won two trials on the course before winning on debut last season and ideally drawn in barrier four. Fixed odds: $31.00 & $6.50.

25.01.2022 Savvy Racing gears up for landmark day With runners in two stakes races, the opening day of the Hawke’s Bay Spring Carnival at Hastings looms as a landmark moment in the short history of syndicator Savvy Racing. Proven black-type performer Pinmedown (pictured) will begin a new campaign in Saturday’s Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m), while the Gr.3 Hawke’s Bay Breeders Gold Trail Stakes (1200m) will provide an early test for promising filly Tokorangi’s credentials for this season’s...Continue reading

25.01.2022 Tuesday 10 November at Te Aroha Weather: showery, track: Heavy10, rail: out 3 metres. 3.58 p.m. R8 16 Viva L’Rippa (5 m Rip Van Winkle Laezeel, by Zabeel) Samantha Collett; found the line from the rear when debuting here on 28 October in the $10,000 Maiden 1600 metres. Handling conditions will be paramount in the corresponding event. Fixed odds: $21.00 & $5.00.

24.01.2022 Saturday 22 August at Matamata Weather: cloudy, track: Heavy10, rail: out 6 metres 1.13 p.m. R5 21 Istina (4 m Reliable Man Testa’s Big Lassie, by Testa Rossa) Cameron Lammas; got back to last off the outside gate resuming over 1200 metres on 2 August at Te Aroha, after finishing strongly for second when trialling there on Heavy11 prior. Up in distance for the $10,000 Maiden 1400 metres, she can produce an improved showing. Fixed odds: $41.00 & $8.50.

23.01.2022 Wednesday 12 August at Taupo Weather: overcast, track: Slow7, rail: true. 11.25 a.m. R1 10 Full of Promise (4 m Pentire Adolay, by Fast ‘N’ Famous) Cameron Lammas; lifted to win a 970-metre trial on 28 July at Te Rapa, and following one start she resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1300 metres. From a mare that won her first two starts and three in total from 1100m 2100m, she has good racing peerage and should go well from barrier four. ... 12.32 p.m. R3 5 Let Me Tell Ya (5 m The Factor Thirst, by Chester House) Matthew Cameron; was in good form prior to lockdown and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1100 metres. Placed in both course attempts, over 1300 metres, she requires luck from barrier 11. 2.17 p.m. R6 7 Pepperello (4 m Atlante Tarantella, by O’Reilly) Taiki Yanagida (a1); capped solid form with victory in the NZB Insurance Pearl Series Maiden 3YO Fillies 1400 metres on 27 February at Pukekohe, with Yanagida aboard, and resumes without a trial in the $10,000 Rating 65 1300 metres. She has trialled well previously here but requires luck from barrier 12. 3.29 p.m. R8 6 Show the Love (4 m Showcasing Maakel, by Swain) Eilish McCall (a3); has registered two seconds and a fourth, from four starts, including a second her with McCall aboard, and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1100 metres. She has shown ability but requires the right trip from barrier nine. 4.04 p.m. R9 3 She’s A Goddess (5 m Tavistock Shalaka, by Lonhro) Matthew Cameron; has impressed winning twice over 1200 metres at Matamata, blew out over 1000 metres fresh-up on 4 July at Te Rapa, and contests the $10,000 Rating 65 1100 metres. She has ability but requires the right trip from barrier nine. Pictured

23.01.2022 Wednesday 2 September at Avondale Weather: overcast, track: Heavy10, rail: out 8 metres 1.07 p.m. R2 3 La Favorita (4 m Reliable Man Visa Lisa, by Redoute’s Choice) Samantha Collett; made ground out of midfield for fourth when resuming in the Maiden 1600 metres on 1 August at Matamata, and contests the $10,000 NZB Pearl Series Maiden 1600 metres. She would prefer better footing, but capable of another solid effort from barrier two. Fixed odds: $8.00 & $2.20.... 4.04 p.m. R7 15 Slinky Linky (4 m Bullbars Slinky Planet, by Danehill Dancer) Taiki Yanagida (a1); trialled well for second on 6 August at Rotorua, and resumes in the $10,000 NZB Pearl Series Maiden 1200 metres. She would prefer better footing, but stronger now and capable of an encouraging effort. Fixed odds: $41.00 & $6.75. 4.39 p.m. R8 3 Livvy Lass (6 m Reliable Man Stella Doro, by Faltaat) Cameron Lammas; was given time (60 days) since racing at Te Rapa, and ideally placed to resume in the $10,000 Rating 65 1400 metres. A course winner over 1600 metres on slow ground last season, she has ability and rates a top three chance if appreciative of conditions. Fixed odds: $7.50 & $2.50. Pictured 4.39 p.m. R8 10 Pepperello (4 m Atlante Tarantella, by O’Reilly) Taiki Yanagida (a1); capped solid form with victory in the NZB Insurance Pearl Series Maiden 3YO Fillies 1400 metres on 27 February at Pukekohe, with Yanagida aboard, and fought well for sixth after working on pace when resuming in the Rating 65 1300 metres on 12 August at Taupo. Handling conditions will be key to her chances in the $10,000 Rating 65 1400 metres. Fixed odds: $13.00 & $3.80.

23.01.2022 Fleetwood Maca out for crowning glory Fleetwood Maca will be vying for her coronation at Ellerslie on New Year’s Day when she contests the Gr.2 Valachi Downs Royal Stakes (2000m). The Michael Moroney and Pam Gerard-trained filly will back-up after a bold runner-up performance in the Gr.2 Eight Carat Classic (1600m) at the Auckland track on Boxing Day....Continue reading

23.01.2022 Friday 2 October at Te Rapa Weather: fine, track: Dead5, rail: out 8 metres 3.22 p.m. R6 9 Salt Bay (6 m Redwood Marsh Harbour, by Volksraad) Eilish McCall (a3); resumes in the $32,500 Open 1200 metres. Although without a trial, she is fitter for a couple of good jump outs, strengthened further and looks great. A course/distance winner, she claims to 52.5kgs and should go well improvement to come with a decent trip from barrier nine. Fixed odds: $34.00 & $5.75. Pictur...ed 4.28 p.m. R8 4 Masetto (5 g Cape Blanco Passchendaele, by Montjeu) Trudy Thornton; kept up a strong gallop to win a 1200-metre trial on 3 September at Te Teko, and resumes in the $32,500 Open 1600 metres. He ended his previous campaign finishing fourth in the Avondale Cup (Gr. 2, 2400m), after second here in the Waikato Cup (Gr. 3, 2400m) and third in the Trentham Stakes (Gr. 3, 2100m). He acts fresh and rates a top four chance. Fixed odds: $13.00 & $3.90.

20.01.2022 Saturday 14 November at Tauranga Weather: fine, track: Dead6, rail: true. 1.25 p.m. R3 10 Aurora Dolce (3 f Super Easy Luna Dolce, by Keeper) Taiki Yanagida (a1); found the line solidly for fourth on debut in the Maiden 3YO 1200 metres here on 30 September. She was held up and buffeted before finding the line in the Maiden 3YO 1200 metres on 28 October at Te Aroha, and rates a top four chance from barrier one in the corresponding event. Fixed odds: $11.00 & $3.50. ... 4.23 p.m. R8 7 Salt Bay (6 m Redwood Marsh Harbour, by Volksraad) Taiki Yanagida (a1); ran well in a race of quick sectionals when resuming in the Open 1200 metres on 2 October and closed strongly for third after chasing a hot pace in the Open 1400 metres on 24 October, both at Te Rapa. A course/distance winner in January and placed an additional four times, she rates a top three chance with the right trip from barrier eight. Fixed odds: $6.00 & $2.15. Saturday 14 November at Riccarton Weather: fine, track: Dead5, rail: out 3 metres from 1100m to 450m, out 3 metres in the chute. 2.56 p.m. R8 10 Tokorangi (3 f Redwood Agent Ziva, by Savabeel) Michael McNab; flashed home for fourth when resuming in the Gold Trail Stakes (Gr. 3, 1200m) on 19 September at Hastings, running the fastest last 600m (33.4), and franked the performance finishing third, clocking 33.9, in the Soliloquy Stakes (Gr. 3, 1400m) on 24 October at Te Rapa. Drawn wide (13) in the $300,000 Barneswood Farm New Zealand 1000 Guineas (Gr. 1, 1600m), but luck and bringing the same game would make her competitive. Fixed odds: $6.50 & $2.40. Pictured

20.01.2022 Sunday 4 October at Ellerslie Weather: fine, track: Dead4, rail: out 9.5 metres 4.13 p.m. R9 6 Livvy Lass (6 m Reliable Man Stella Doro, by Faltaat) Ashvin Goindasamy (a1); was okay coming from last on ground too heavy for her in the Rating 65 1400 metres on 2 September at Avondale, and strikes much better footing in the $22,500 Rating 65 1400 metres. A winner here on Melbourne Cup Day last year over a mile, she rates a top four chance from barrier one. Fixed odds: $14.00... & $3.90. Pictured 4.48 p.m. R10 12 Lily D’or (5 m Cape Blanco Zarvana, by Zabeel) Ashvin Goindasamy (a1); finished close in sixth, second-up from a spell, in the Rating 75 1400 metres on 5 September at Te Rapa, and steps up in the $27,500 Rating 74 1600 metres. Ideally drawn (1) and carrying minimum weight (53kgs), she rates a top three chance. Fixed odds: $5.50 & $2.00.

19.01.2022 Hawke’s Bay runners provide plenty of optimism for Gerard Trainer Pam Gerard was delighted with the return of Tokarangi and Pinmedown at Hawke’s Bay on Saturday. Three-year-old filly Tokorangi was one of the runs of the day when finishing fourth in the Gr.3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m), while Pinmedown was beaten only four lengths in the Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m) when tenth and will be seen at her best when out to a middle distance. ...Continue reading

16.01.2022 Saturday 19 September at Hastings Weather: fine, track: Dead4, rail: true. 11.20 a.m. R1 7 Ali Baba (8 g Savabeel Dreamworks, by Maroof) Michael Roustoby; won fresh-up in the Rating 83 2000 metres before sailing home to win a Maiden Hurdle (2800m), finished second in the Waikato Hurdle (3200m), and good through the line in precursor flat race (Rating 95 2100 metres) a fortnight ago all at Te Rapa. Ideally drawn (3) in the $50,000 Te Whangai Romneys Hawkes Bay Hurdle (31...00m), he strips in great fettle. Fixed odds: $4.20 & $1.75. 3.15 p.m. R8 10 Tokorangi (3 f Redwood Agent Ziva, by Savabeel) Michael McNab; followed a very good debut second, impressively winning the Maiden 2YO 1100 metres in January at Matamata. She was good through the line when trialling on 3 September at Te Teko, and handily drawn (5) to resume in the $70,000 Hawkes Bay Breeders’ Gold Trail Stakes (Gr. 3, 1200m). A good mixture of professionalism and talent, it will be interesting to see how she fares. Fixed odds: $13.00 & $3.60. 4.25 p.m. R10 12 Pinmedown (5 m Pins Alleyway, by Oregon) Ryan Elliot; resumes in the $200,000 Tarzino Trophy (Gr. 1, 1400m), drawn barrier sis. A Group 2 & 3 winner (1600m & 2100m), she trialled well into third on 3 September at Te Teko, is a course/distance winner at her only attempt, and although destined for further can hold her own at this level. Fixed odds: $61.00 & $8.50. Pictured

14.01.2022 Wednesday 19 August at Taupo Weather: drizzling, track: Dead6, rail: out 2.5 metres between 800m 600m, remainder true. 11.44 a.m. R1 8 Let Me Tell Ya (5 m The Factor Thirst, by Chester House) Taiki Yanagida (a1); was trapped wide when resuming here a week ago in the $10,000 Maiden 1100 metres and contests the corresponding event. Placed in both previous course attempts, over 1300 metres, she has a better draw (4) which should coincide with an improved performance. Fixed... odds: $14.00 & $4.00. 12.14 p.m. R2 8 Bubalina (3 f Darci Brahma Mirth, by Teofilo) Cameron Lammas; looked good winning her first trial in March at Te Teko, kept up a strong gallop for third on 28 July at Te Rapa, and debuts in the $10,000 Maiden 3YO 1100 metres. She has natural talent, pedigree to go further, and ideally drawn (3). Fixed odds: $8.00 & $2.40.

14.01.2022 Saturday 29 August at Tauranga Weather: overcast, track: Heavy11, rail: true 1.55 p.m. R3 11 Marmellos (4 m Ocean Park Caramellos, by Pins) Cameron Lammas; stuck to the task for third when trialling (Heavy11) in July at Te Aroha, and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1200 metres. She would prefer better footing, but opportunity to kick her off. Fixed odds: $11.00 & $3.40.

13.01.2022 Roch-ing Ellerslie Cheers from the Wairarapa rang out on 1 January at Ellerslie, largely from Little Avondale Stud proprietor Sam Williams, as Roch ‘N’ Horse (4 m Per Incanto Rochfort, by Cecconi) snuck through for victory in the $50,000 Rating 65 1200 metres. It’s good to win anywhere, but especially nice to win at headquarters, said Williams, as he joined his fellow owners to celebrate.... Utilizing barrier one to trail for rider Lisa Allpress ONZM, fresh from receiving deserved recognition in the New Year’s Honours List, Roch ‘N’ Horse travelled sweetly before piercing through a gap one off the rail near home. I just waited and when I was confident I had enough horse under me I let her go, and she fought really hard, Allpress said. It was great. I think she’ll keep stepping up and Pam (Gerard) said she was definitely one (gallop) short today, after having a few troubles with her shins. Going forward, I’m sure she’s a nice horse and she’s got a great bunch of owners and any horse from Little Avondale is good to get on. In the race sponsored by Mainstream Plumbing & Gas Fitting, on footing upgraded to Good3, Roch ‘N’ Horse ran the 1200 metres in a quality time: 1:09.7, last 600m in 33.8, and paid $8.10 & $2.50 on the NZ TAB tote. She’s had a few little issues with her shins, but she’s a very fast mare, Gerard said. I would have liked another gallop under her belt, but she’s all class and done a huge job. By resident Little Avondale Stud stallion Per Incanto (Street Cry), sire of 639 winners, including 26 stakes wins and three at Group 1 level, Roch ‘N’ Horse is from the family of well performed gallopers Travolta and Weissmuller, both by Handsome Ransom. Travolta, a dual listed winner and Group 3 placed, won six races from 1300m to 2400m and Weissmuller, a Group 3 winner, won eight races from 1200m 2100m. Roch ‘N’ Horse was strapped by Michael Thompson.

13.01.2022 1 January at Ellerslie Weather: fine, track: Dead4, rail: out 3 metres 1.19 p.m. R2 9 Roch ‘N’ Horse (4 m Per Incanto Rochfort, by Cecconi) Lisa Allpress; bolted in winning the Maiden 1000 metres in October at Te Aroha, and without all favours in the Rating 65 1200 metres on 21 November at Pukekohe. Freshened since, she gets a chance to bounce back in the $50,000 Rating 65 1200 metres. Fixed odds: $9.00 & $3.00.... 2.29 p.m. R4 1 Fleetwood Maca (3 f Rock ‘n’ Pop Macavelli Miss, by Vettori) Andrew Calder; won the Maiden 3YO 1400 metres here on Melbourne Cup Day (3 Nov.), followed up on the course with a tough effort for third in the Trevor Eagle Memorial (Listed, 1500m) on 28 November, and lifted strongly for second here on Boxing Day in the Eight Carat Classic (Group 2, 1600m). Ideally drawn (3) in the $100,000 Valachi Downs Royal Stakes (Gr. 2, 2000m), she brings the right form to rate a top three chance. Fixed odds: $3.80 & $1.65. Pictured 3.04 p.m. R5 19 Za Za Gabor (6 m O’Reilly Zaza Top, by Lomitas) Kozzi Asano (a1); stepped up with a solid effort in the Open 2100 metres here on 5 December, finished beyond midfield in the Manawatu Cup (Gr. 3, 2300m) on 19 December at Awapuni, and worked belatedly into fourth here on Boxing Day in the Rating 74 2200 metres. Drawn five in the $100,000 Dunstan Championship Final (Special Conditions, 2400m), she shapes to race well again. Fixed odds: $17.00 & $5.00. 3.39 p.m. R6 10 Dragon Queen (3 f Sweynesse Happy Endings, by Tavistock) Danielle Johnson; did well finishing second off a wide run in the Maiden 1400 metres on 25 November at Te Rapa, before winning the corresponding event on 16 December at Pukekohe. Up in class for the $100,000 SkyCity Auckland Guineas (Gr. 2, 1600m), but has the addition of blinkers and drawn (4) to receive an economical trip. Fixed odds: $15.00 & $3.30.

10.01.2022 Sunday 23 August at Te Aroha Weather: fine, track: Heavy10, rail: out 5 metres 2.50 p.m. R8 3 Ostasio (4 g Savabeel Pierian, by Montjeu) Chad Ormsby; came from midfield to win here on debut by three and a half lengths in the Maiden 1200 metres on 2 August, after trialling well for third on the course. Striking similar conditions, stepping up in the $10,000 Rating 65 1400 metres and although meeting a stronger field he should go well again. Fixed odds: $11.00 & $3.50. Pict...ured 4.09 p.m. R10 13 Catwalk Girl (4 m Per Incanto High Heels, by High Chaparral) Cameron Lammas; sustained a strong gallop for third when trialling on Heavy11 in June at Rotorua, and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1200 metres. She has shown ability and capable of a solid effort if appreciative of conditions. Fixed odds: $18.00 & $4.60.

10.01.2022 Four from Nine for Petrachor Renowned for her sturdy qualities, Petrachor (5 m Redwood Mother, by Red Ransom) was tough as teak again when winning the $27,500 Power Farming Rating 74 1400 metres on Boxing Day at Awapuni. Home in the smartest last 600m on the day (33.9) when snatching a last stride victory in the Rating 65 1300 metres on 9 December at Hastings, Petrachor stepped up in grade with aplomb.... Retaining the ride, Lisa Allpress was caught wide in the early rush before steadying behind the pace and while Petrachor appeared to a have reached a plateau in the straight she lifted tenaciously with a winning turn of foot. She never looked like she was going to win, but she never does, said co-trainer Pam Gerard. At her first course attempt, Petrachor ran the 1400 metres in 1:24.5 on Dead6 footing and paid $6.30 & $1.90 on the NZ TAB tote. The richly coloured mare, owned by Gerry Harvey (Westbury Stud), recorded her fourth victory from nine starts and could give rise to a start in the Anniversary Handicap (Gr. 3, 1600m) on 16 January at Trentham. I watched the race on course at Ellerslie with Russell Warwick (Westbury Stud general manager) and he was stoked, Gerard said. He thought she went super and let’s down with a quick turn of foot. Lisa (Allpress) thinks she is probably looking for more ground, so we could look at stepping to a mile in the Anniversary. I’ll have a talk to Mike (Moroney) and we’ll come to a decision. She may still be in Rating 74 grade, so we’ll wait and see. The stakes race could be a better option than carrying top weight in Rating 74 grade. She’s beaten a pretty good field. Her work the other day was pretty smart, so good to know we’re back on track with her. Obviously, the blinkers have helped but also, too, a stronger rider. By Westbury Stud stallion Redwood (High Chaparral), sire of 289 winners including nine at stakes level, from an unraced mare, Petrachor is a half-sister to four-time winner Niobe (Niello) and winner Big Mama (Red Giant). Petrachor was strapped by the highly credentialed local trainer Mark Oulaghan.

09.01.2022 Wednesday 30 September at Tauranga Weather: fine, track: Slow7, rail: out 4 metres 12.22 p.m. R1 5 Prince Kanto (5 g Tavistock Guru Girl, by Ishiguru) Ryan Elliot; stretched out to win easily over 1200 metres when trialling on 3 September at Te Teko, and debuts in the $10,000 Maiden 1200 metres. His dam won five times to 2100 metres, so destined to get up in trip, but emulation of his trial performance should enable a bold first-up showing. Fixed odds: $10.00 & $2.90.... 12.57 p.m. R2 12 Slinky Linky (4 m Bullbars Slinky Planet, by Danehill Dancer) Ryan Elliot; tired in ground too heavy for her when resuming in the Pearl Series Maiden 1200 metres on 2 September at Avondale. She had trialled well prior for second on slow ground and ideally drawn (3) to produce an improved showing in the $10,000 Maiden 1200 metres. Fixed odds: $51.00 & $8.00. 1.32 p.m. R3 9 Targhee (3 f Dissident Commandment, by Commands) Craig Grylls; was shuffled back to last when resuming in the $10,000 Maiden 3YO 1200 metres on 9 September at Matamata, and found the Slow8 conditions a bit tough. She performed admirably in good two-year-old fields last season and although preferred on better footing is capable of racing well in the corresponding event. Fixed odds: $16.00 & $4.20. 1.32 p.m. R3 17 Aurora Dolce (3 f Super Easy Luna Dolce, by Keeper) Sam Weatherley; showed resolve off a wide trip to finish third when trialling on 3 September at Te Teko, and debuts in the $10,000 Maiden 3YO 1200 metres. Her dam won over 1200 metres on heavy footing, while the family has acted over shorter trips, and she is ideally drawn (3) to race solidly. Fixed odds: $9.50 & $3.10. 2.07 p.m. R4 13 Shake That Tush (4 m Dissident Ravenna, by Redoute’s Choice) Ryan Elliot; came from off the pace with a good finish for third when trialling on 3 September at Te Teko, and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1300 metres. Lightly tried, she has shown ability at times and capable of a bold effort. Fixed odds: $21.00 & $5.25. 2.07 p.m. R4 16 Catwalk Girl (4 m Per Incanto High Heels, by High Chaparral) Ashvin Goindasamy (a2); found the going too heavy when resuming over 1200 metres at Te Aroha, and steps up in the $10,000 Maiden 1300 metres. From a good family and destined to get up in trip, she has drawn favourably in barrier five. Fixed odds: $31.00 & $6.25.

09.01.2022 Wednesday 23 September at Matamata Weather: cloudy, track: Dead5, rail: out 12 metres. 11.55 a.m. R1 8 Iridessa (5 m Eurozone Zennita, by Commands) Shaun McKay; found the line from last to finish sixth here on 9 September in the Maiden 1400 metres and contests the $10,000 Maiden 1600 metres. She has recorded three thirds up to 2000 metres on dead footing and ideally drawn (2). Fixed odds: $12.00 & $3.40.... 12.32 p.m. R2 9 Istina (4 m Reliable Man Testa’s Big Lassie, by Testa Rossa) Samantha Collett; peaked on her run given Heavy11 going in the Maiden 1400 metres on 26 August at Rotorua, and contests the $10,000 Maiden 1600 metres. She is ideally drawn (1) and seeking improvement with blinkers on. Fixed odds: $19.00 & $4.40. 1.07 p.m. R3 4 Ostasio (4 g Savabeel Pierian, by Montjeu) Ryan Elliot; came from midfield to win easily on debut in the Maiden 1200 metres on 2 August at Te Aroha, before getting well back in the Rating 65 1400 metres there on 23 August. Drawn barrier five in the $10,000 Rating 65 1400 metres, it will be interesting to see how he performs on the home track. Fixed odds: $10.00 & $3.20. 1.42 p.m. R4 4 Grip (3 c Exosphere Pentolite, by Pentire) Danielle Johnson; has looked good at the trials with a first and fourth, respectively, at Te Teko, and debuts in the $10,000 Maiden 3YO 1400 metres. By Lonhro (Octagonal) stallion Exosphere, he is from a family of robust and prolific winners and has the leading rider aboard. Fixed odds: $9.00 & $2.40. Pictured as yearling 2.17 p.m. R5 1 The Green Dragon (4 g Rothesay Cinnamon Dove, by Gulch) Opie Bosson; did a good job to clear tight-quarters when finishing second here fresh-up in the $10,000 Maiden 1400 metres on 9 September and contests the corresponding event. He rates a top three chance from barrier five. Fixed odds: $5.50 & $2.10. 3.29 p.m. R7 7 Bubalina (3 f Darci Brahma Mirth, by Teofilo) Ashvin Goindasamy (a2); was held up and never got a crack when debuting here in the $10,000 Maiden 3YO 1100 metres on 19 August at Taupo, and contests the corresponding event. Showing natural talent at the trials prior, she has the pedigree to go further but receives weight relief to 53.5kgs. Fixed odds: $7.00 & $2.40. 4.39 p.m. R9 16 Marmellos (4 m Ocean Park Caramellos, by Pins) Ryan Elliot; found Heavy11 too testing when resuming over 1200 metres in August at Tauranga, and contests the $10,000 Maiden 1400 metres. She has blinkers on and drawn (4) to receive an economical trip. Fixed odds: $26.00 & $5.75. 5.09 p.m. R10 12 La Favorita (4 m Reliable Man Visa Lisa, by Redoute’s Choice) Samantha Collett; tied up in the heavy going, second-up in the Pearl Series Maiden 1600 metres on 2 September at Avondale, and steps up in the $10,000 Maiden 2000 metres. The increased distance and better footing should suit, but she requires luck from a wide draw (14). Fixed odds: $10.00 & $3.20.

08.01.2022 Saturday 5 September at Te Rapa Weather: overcast, track: Slow7, rail: true 12.20 p.m. R2 15 Lily D’or (5 m Cape Blanco Zarvana, by Zabeel) Cameron Lammas; continued finding the line off a wide trip when resuming in the Rating 69 1200 metres on 1 August at Matamata, and steps up in the $30,000 Rating 75 1400 metres. Twice a winner to 1400 metres, her grand-dam, Giovana (Blues Traveller), won four Group 1 races and had a real affinity with Te Rapa. She rates a top four cha...nce from barrier one. Fixed odds: $9.00 & $3.00. Pictured 1.30 p.m. R4 11 Ali Baba (8 g Savabeel Dreamworks, by Maroof) Taiki Yanagida (a1); won fresh-up in the Rating 83 2000 metres before sailing home to win a Maiden Hurdle (2800m) and finish second in the Waikato Hurdle (3200m), all at Te Rapa, and contests the $30,000 Rating 95 2100 metres. The race serves as a precursor to the Hawkes Bay Hurdle (3100m) in a fortnight at Hastings, but in great fettle. Fixed odds: $34.00 & $7.50. 4.25 p.m. R9 17 Tiny Terror (5 g Shamexpress Thora, by Pins) Craig Grylls; worked wide on pace and fought solidly for fifth in the Rating 65 1400 metres here on 8 August and contests the $22,500 Rating 65 1300 metres. He has raced well here and should prove competitive from barrier five. Fixed odds: $51.00 & $10.00.

08.01.2022 Eurozone Mare Iridessa Wins Bred and owned by Kevin & Julie Taylor, Iridessa (5 m Eurozone Zennita, by Commands) recorded a deserved victory in the $10,000 Waharoa Industrial Park Maiden 1600 metres on 23 September at Matamata. A beautiful big mare that presented in striking condition, Iridessa had produced three thirds up to 2000 metres on dead footing and ideally drawn (2) she was able to take up the leading role. After travelling easily, she found a two-length advantage ...to the 200m and won comfortably by one and a quarter lengths. On Dead5 footing and ridden by Shaun McKay, Iridessa ran the 1600 metres in 1:37.7, last 600m in 36.9, and shortened in betting from $12.00 & $3.40 fixed to pay $9.60 & $2.50 on the tote. She had sore foot for awhile which held her up this time in, but she’s a mare we’ve been patient with and better track conditions helped, said co-trainer Pam Gerard. Shaun (McKay) has been really loyal to her and loves her. It’s really good for him because he helps me out heaps. From a strong female family, Iridessa is by Eurozone, one of the first stallions to stud by ill-fated sire of sires Northern Meteor (Encosta De Lago). We raced the mother (Zennita) in Australia, but she got injured, said Julie Taylor. Zoustar, another Northern Meteor stallion was A$40,000 and she didn’t warrant that cost, and Eurozone was a top racehorse. Pam (Gerard) has always had plenty of confidence in Iridessa, but she is a big mare and needed time to mature. Today is just amazing and a thrill to win. The grand-dam Talista raced here (NZ) and as Talista Belle in Australia. She won seven and was stakes placed. We bought her off Terry Jarvis, off the track, and we’ve sold just under $1 million in foals from her at Karaka. Iridessa was strapped by Scott Magee.

07.01.2022 Wednesday 9 September at Matamata Weather: cloudy, track: Slow8, rail: out 9 metres 1.07 p.m. R3 4 The Green Dragon (4 g Rothesay Cinnamon Dove, by Gulch) Chad Ormsby; has done plenty of work since trialling in July and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1400 metres. Suited to better going and likely to improve for the run, he has acted fresh previously and ideally drawn (3). Fixed odds: $21.00 & $5.25.... 1.42 p.m. R4 9 Iridessa (5 m Eurozone Zennita, by Commands) Shaun McKay; had a run in July before being hindered with a foot abscess and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1400 metres. She got out to 2200 metres in her previous campaign and the race appears a good starting point. Fixed odds: $13.00 & $3.30. 2.17 p.m. R5 8 Targhee (3 f Dissident Commandment, by Commands) Cameron Lammas; trialled well for third in July at Te Rapa, and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 3YO 1200 metres. She performed admirably in good two-year-old fields last season. Although preferred on better footing, she appears capable of a bold first-up effort. Fixed odds: $7.50 & $2.30. 2.17 p.m. R5 11 Baby Cheeses (3 f Showcasing Sweet Spirit, by Octagonal) Samantha Collett; resumes from barrier five in the $10,000 Maiden 3YO 1200 metres. She finished second when trialling in July, has shown natural ability, and should give a line fresh-up. Fixed odds: $21.00 & $4.80. Pictured as yearling

07.01.2022 Tuesday 17 November at Rotorua Weather: fine, track: Dead4, rail: out 4.5 metres 1300m to winning post, remainder out 2.5 metres. 1.22 p.m. R4 5 Prince Kanto (5 g Tavistock Guru Girl, by Ishiguru) Eilish McCall (a3); stretched out to win easily over 1200 metres when trialling on 3 September at Te Teko, and given time (48 days) after working hard on debut in the Maiden 1200 metres on 30 September at Tauranga. His dam won five times to 2100 metres, so destined to get up in... trip, but capable of racing solidly from barrier one in the $10,000 Maiden 1400 metres. Fixed odds: $18.00 & $4.50. 2.32 p.m. R6 7 Amazing Maria (4 m Shocking Tiz Kate, by Black Minnaloushe) Matt Cameron; yielded late after racing handily on a competitive pace when resuming in the Maiden 1400 metres on 28 October at Te Aroha, and steps up in the $10,000 Maiden 1560 metres. She spelled in March after two fourths and trialled solidly before kicking off. Fixed odds: $23.00 & $5.00. 5.24 p.m. R11 7 Istina (4 m Reliable Man Testa’s Big Lassie, by Testa Rossa) Taiki Yanagida (a3); finished second on Dead5 over a mile before finding Slow9 too arduous in the Maiden 1600 metres on 21 October at Matamata. She receives a chance to bounce back, stepping up in the $10,000 Maiden 1950 metres. Fixed odds: $21.00 & $4.80.

06.01.2022 Tofane lures Moroney back to the races Trans-Tasman trainer Michael Moroney will head to the races for the first time in five months on Saturday when he goes to Flemington to watch Tofane compete in the Gr.2 Bobbie Lewis Quality (1200m). With the COVID-19 outbreak in Victoria, Moroney felt it was wise to steer clear of raceday and focus his attention towards training his Flemington-based team....Continue reading

05.01.2022 Prince Kanto wins at Rotorua An easy trial winner prior to racing, Prince Kanto (5 g Tavistock Guru Girl, by Ishiguru) cleared Maidens over 1400 metres on 17 November at Rotorua, like a horse with more in store. Having stretched out to win easily over 1200 metres when trialling on 3 September at Te Teko, Prince Kanto was given time (48 days) after working hard on debut in the Maiden 1200 metres on 30 September at Tauranga, and made amends in dominant fashion. ... Taken to the front by three-kilo claiming apprentice Eilish McCall, Prince Kanto travelled boldly on the bridle throughout, had his rivals doing their best at the 400m and he kept up a powerful gallop to score untouched by two and three-quarter lengths. He had a lovely draw (2) and with three-kilos off his back we were always going to be positive, said co-trainer Pam Gerard. We thought the tight turning track should suit him. He’d worked up nicely and Eilish (McCall) knows him really well. She’d been galloping him in track work and he’d been going well for her, so we hoped she could rate him well in front, which she did, and we thought if good enough he’d be right in it. It was a little while between runs, but we expected the 1400 metres to really suit him and in time he’ll get up further in trip. Prince Kanto is bred and owned by Karen Remetis and Bryan Wentworth. Overlooked in betting, Prince Kanto returned $26.30 & $4.90 on the NZ TAB tote after running the 1400 metres on Dead4 footing in a polished 1:23.1. The race was sponsored by Novara Park. From a mare by versatile sire Ishiguru (Danzig), his dam, Guru Girl, was good enough to finish fourth as a three-year-old in the Eight Carat Classic (Gr. 2, 1600m), winning five times to 2100 metres. And although destined to get up in trip, Prince Kanto had shown enough zest at the trials to suggest competitiveness over lesser distances early in his career. Also, the influence of Yamanin Vital (Sir Tristram) as grand-dam sire certainly lends itself to staying and, interestingly, Yamanin Vital is also the dam sire of Auckland Cup (Gr. 1, 3200m) winner Roger That (Shinko King), and a good strong staying family from White Robe Lodge. Prince Kanto was strapped by Harri Singh.

02.01.2022 Saturday 26 September at Ellerslie Weather: overcast, track: Good3, rail: out 9.5 metres 1.25 p.m. R3 12 Dragon Queen (3 f Sweynesse Happy Endings, by Tavistock) Taiki Yanagida (a1); did extremely well for fifth in the $1m Karaka Million 2YO (Restricted Listed, 1200m) here in January, spelled after contesting the Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (Gr. 2, 1200m), and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1200 metres. She had an easy trial recently at Te Teko, very good course record, and ...rates a top three chance. Fixed odds: $3.80 & $1.40. 2.35 p.m. R5 10 Pepperello (4 m Atlante Tarantella, by O’Reilly) Shaun McKay; fought solidly for fifth on heavy footing in the Rating 65 1400 metres on 2 September at Avondale, and contests the $22,500 Rating 65 1400 metres. A winner over 1400 metres on Good3 at Pukekohe, improved footing is ideal but she requires luck from a wide draw (12). Fixed odds: $16.00 & $4.00. 4.23 p.m. R8 1 On the Rocks (6 g Alamosa Cold Shoulder, by Volksraad) Elish McCall (a3); spelled in March after defending his title in the Herbie Dyke Stakes (Gr. 1, 2000m) at Te Rapa, and the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (Gr. 1, 2000m) at Ellerslie. He worked home well for third when trialling recently at Te Teko, and resumes in the $32,500 Open 1400 metres. He has a good course record (three wins, placed twice) and coming up well, but drawn wide (12) and carrying plenty (59kgs) despite weight relief. Fixed odds: $18.00 & $5.25. Pictured

02.01.2022 Sunday 13 September at Taupo Weather: fine, track: Dead4, rail: true. 1.29 p.m. R2 3 Let Me Tell Ya (5 m The Factor Thirst, by Chester House) Taiki Yanagida (a1); stuck to her task when finishing fourth here in the $10,000 Maiden 1100 metres on 19 August and has blinkers on in the corresponding event. She likes the course and rates a top three chance from barrier seven. Fixed odds: $6.50 & $2.05.... 2.39 p.m. R4 3 Show the Love (4 m Showcasing Maakel, by Swain) Eilish McCall (a3); got back from an awkward draw (9) when resuming here in the Maiden 1100 metres on 12 August and fared no better drawing barrier 10 in the $10,000 Maiden 1000 metres. She has shown ability but requires luck in running. Fixed odds: $34.00 & $6.25.

02.01.2022 1000 Guineas raid for Tokorangi Talented filly Tokorangi headed to Christchurch on Thursday morning ahead of a tilt at the Gr.1 Barneswood Farm New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton on Saturday for trainers Michael Moroney and Pam Gerard. The daughter of Redwood charged into third in the Gr.3 Soliloquy Stakes (1400m) last start behind De La Terre and gives the impression the step-up in distance will be right up her alley....Continue reading

01.01.2022 Saturday 3 October at Hastings Weather: fine, track: Dead4, rail: true. 1.30 p.m. R3 3 Gus the Maverick (4 g Shamexpress Hollywood Angel, by Dehere) Chad Ormsby; followed two fifths, coming from last with a strong finish for third in the Rating 65 1400 metres on 17 September at Te Rapa. Ideally drawn (2) in the $30,000 Rating 65 1400 metres, he brings the right form to rate a top four chance. Fixed odds: $5.50 & $2.15.... 2.40 p.m. R5 13 Petrachor (5 m Redwood Mother, by Red Ransom) Ashvin Goindasamy (a2); quickened to finish third when trialling in July at Te Rapa, and bided time since in search of better footing. She displayed tough attributes to win her first two starts and capable of a solid effort in the $30,000 Rating 74 1200 metres. Fixed odds: $12.00 & $2.60. 3.50 p.m. R7 9 Run For Cover (3 c Burgundy Fashion Forward, by Pentire) Ryan Elliot; looked good when winning a trial in August at Te Teko, and solid over sprint trip when debuting in the Maiden 3YO 1200 metres on 17 September at Te Rapa. Drawn the outside (13) is no help in the $100,000 Dundeel at Arrowfield Hawkes Bay Guineas (Gr. 2, 1400m), but he should be finding the line. Fixed odds: $61.00 & $8.00. 5.00 p.m. R9 10 Pinmedown (5 m Pins Alleyway, by Oregon) Ryan Elliot; found the line in a competitive last 600m (34.9) when resuming here a fortnight ago in the Tarzino Trophy (Gr. 1, 1400m), and steps up in the $200,000 Windsor Park Plate (Gr. 1, 1600m). A Group 2 & 3 winner (1600m & 2100m), she can hold her own at this level. Fixed odds: $71.00 & $16.00. Pictured

01.01.2022 28 December at Rotorua Weather: fine, track: Dead6, rail: true. 12.15 p.m. R1 2 Hosel Rocket (5 g Redwood Mrs Pea, by Pentire) Samantha Collett; fought well for fourth after working wide in the Maiden 2100 metres on 9 December at Hastings, and contests the $10,000 Maiden 2200 metres. He rates a top three chance from barrier seven. Fixed odds: $8.00 & $2.30.... 2.35 p.m. R5 8 Pipsqueak Rose (5 m Alamosa Minnaleo, by Black Minnaloushe) Eilish McCall (a3); produced a good debut effort for second and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1215 metres. Although destined to go further dam won four races from 1600m 1800m she is aided by weight relief to 53.5kg. Fixed odds: $6.00 & $2.00. 3.11 p.m. R6 6 Run For Cover (3 c Burgundy Fashion Forward, by Pentire) Shaun McKay; coped with yielding ground when winning the Maiden 3YO 1400 metres in October at Matamata, and drops in class after contesting both the Wellington Stakes (Gr. 3, 1600m) and Bonecrusher Stakes (Gr. 3, 1400m). He receives a chance to improve in the $10,000 Rating 65 1560 metres. Fixed odds: $10.00 & $3.00. Pictured 4.21 p.m. R8 10 Wasp (4 m Ocean Park Thimble, by Pins) Eilish McCall (a3); found the line in the Maiden 1400 metres on 11 December at Tauranga, and steps up in the $10,000 Maiden 1560 metres. Aided by weight relief to 53.5kg, but drawn wide (12) makes it tough. Fixed odds: $26.00 & $5.50. 4.57 p.m. R9 13 Baby Cheeses (3 f Showcasing Sweet Spirit, by Octagonal) Shaun McKay; felt the effects of working hard on pace in the Maiden 1400 metres on 9 December at Hastings, and receives a chance to bounce back in the $10,000 NZB Insurance Pearl Series Maiden Fillies & Mares 1400 metres (eligible $11,500 bonus). Fixed odds: $31.00 & $5.50.

01.01.2022 Wednesday 26 August at Rotorua Weather: fine, track: Heavy11, rail: true 1.07 p.m. R2 7 Wasp (4 m Ocean Park Thimble, by Pins) Craig Grylls; fought bravely when trialling on heavy footing in July at Te Aroha, and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1100 metres. She produced a couple of noteworthy performances in three starts last season, and suited to better footing, but having a run to get campaign underway. Fixed odds: $10.00 & $3.20.... 2.52 p.m. R5 5 Gus the Maverick (4 g Shamexpress Hollywood Angel, by Dehere) Chad Ormsby; closed well to win a trial here in June over 800 metres and fought hard for fifth when resuming in the Rating 65 1200 metres on 1 August at Matamata. Physically and mentally stronger, he should go well again in the $10,000 Rating 65 1215 metres. Fixed odds: $7.00 & $2.10. Pictured 4.04 p.m. R7 4 Glenhope (5 g O’Reilly Sapphire Belle, by Danske) Craig Grylls; found the line when trialling here on 6 August and resumes in the $10,000 Rating 65 1400 metres. He was comprehensive winning on debut last August in testing ground and capable of a solid showing. Fixed odds: $8.00 & $2.40. 4.39 p.m. R8 4 Hosel Rocket (5 g Redwood Mrs Pea, by Pentire) Cameron Lammas; picked up from last with a big run to win a trial here on 6 August and resumes in the $10,000 Maiden 1400 metres. Although stretched out to 2100 metres, emulation of his recent trial would put him in contention. Fixed odds: $10.00 & $3.30. 4.39 p.m. R8 20 Istina (4 m Reliable Man Testa’s Big Lassie, by Testa Rossa) Trudy Thornton; got back to last off the outside gate resuming over 1200 metres on 2 August at Te Aroha, after finishing strongly for second when trialling there on Heavy11 prior. Up in distance for the $10,000 Maiden 1400 metres, she can produce an improved showing. Fixed odds: $41.00 & $7.50.