Phelan to feature prominently at Te Rapa and Hastings
Shaun Phelan is set to be represented by leading contenders at both New Zealand race meetings on Saturday, despite the likely scratching of his six-race winner Enchanted Elle.
Sharrock eyes another Opunake Cup with Justaskme
Winter warhorse Justaskme is already a two-time winner of the Listed Opunake Cup (1400m), and New Plymouth trainer Allan Sharrock is using Saturday’s Valley D’Vine Restaurant Handicap (1400m) at Hastings as a springboard into another shot at the local feature on July 20.
Balzano raises Winter Cup hopes with Ashburton upset
A spur of the moment decision to run Balzano at Ashburton has paid dividends for Nikki White after the underrated galloper powered to victory in the Agraforum Growing Innovation (1400m) on Thursday.
Classy winter pair performing for Forsman
In a quiet racing period for Cambridge trainer Andrew Forsman, he has the advantage of two quality gallopers contesting the open-class races through the winter in Turn The Ace and Wessex.
Eliud set for Flemington final
Tony Pike is hoping his three-year-old Eliud can finish a successful preparation on a high note on Saturday when he contests the Mahogany Challenge Final (2500m) at Flemington.
Hurdler heading for another crack at Great Northern
The Great Northern Hurdle (4200m) will again be the target for last season’s runner-up Tahuroa Height.
Mxothwa excited to kick-off riding career
Apprentice jockey Sima Mxothwa will join the growing list of expat South Africans riding in New Zealand when he makes his race day debut at Te Rapa on Saturday.
Trainer lands first victory
It was a memorable day at Ashburton on Thursday for Jess Land, with the Rangiora horsewoman recording her first training win courtesy of Captain Oumuamua in the Green Fencing (1600m).
Vale Tom Lowry
Tom Lowry, an immensely influential figure in the New Zealand thoroughbred industry, passed away on Monday aged 88.
Group One goals on quality mare’s program
Talented and tenacious mare Town Cryer will be given every opportunity during her next preparation to break through at the highest level.
Lang Open Minded about stakes winner’s return
Cambridge trainer Darrel Lang is looking forward to heading to Te Rapa on Saturday where nine-win gelding Open Minded will make his New Zealand debut in the Group One Turf Bar Sprint (1200m).
Phats a first for Bambry at Flemington
Promising staying three-year-old Phats will tick an exciting box for Chrissy Bambry on Saturday at Flemington as her first runner in Australia.