Jockey Sam Spratt’s infectious smile will make a welcome return to the races at Te Rapa on Saturday, where she will resume raceday riding after a 20-month absence.
“Watch out, he’s back.” That’s the warning from trainer Stephen Marsh following former New Zealand Horse of the Year El Vencedor’s return to winning form in the Gr.3 Elsdon Park Balmerino Stakes (2000m) at Ellerslie on Tuesday.
New Zealand-bred filly De Armas is set to back up in Thursday’s Gr.1 Victoria Oaks (2500m) at Flemington following her dominant win in the Gr.2 Wakeful Stakes (2000m) at the Melbourne track on Derby Day.
Former Cambridge galloper Dusty Road has been enjoying his new surroundings in the South Island and is in great shape to make his debut for trainer Samantha Wynne at Wingatui on Tuesday.
A Melbourne Cup victory with a daughter of his former Group One star Shocking would be a dream come true for Australian owner-breeder Laurence Eales, who is hoping Shockletz can follow in her sire's footsteps at Flemington on Tuesday.
