Wanganui is becoming a happy stomping ground for Matamata raider Drop Of Something, and trainer Wayne Hillis is hoping their good association with the Central Districts track continues this weekend.
Hillis trekked down to Wanganui with Drop Of Something last Saturday and was rewarded with victory in the Emmetts Truck Services Open (2040m).
“He had a good run right behind the leader (My Maebelline Girl) and that is the one he beat, he did well. It was a really good run,” Hillis said.
“He has come through it really well. He ate up everything and travelled well and is the same weight as he was before he went down.”
Hillis has elected to back his gelding up in this Saturday’s Listed Steelform Roofing Group Wanganui Cup (2040m), where he is set to be met by a similar field.
“We are heading down again for another trip, and he seems to handle it alright," Hillis said.
“Some of the ones we raced against last time have been nominated, along with a few extra ones too. The topweight (Aljay), if he stays in, will be pushing the weights down, so that will help us.”
Drop Of Something will likely have a freshen-up after the weekend, with Hillis looking for options in the new year for his five-year-old.
“I will probably give him an ease up after this after going down there twice, and then we will make a plan for after Christmas,” he said.
Meanwhile, Hillis will also be represented at Ellerslie on Saturday by Brian Lamont in the Dunstan Feeds Stayers Qualifying Race (2400m).
“He is up a grade, but he has won four races,” Hillis said. “The 2400m should suit him. He has had three goes at that and has just been a bit unlucky in those. It seems to be what he wants and right-handed is his go to, that is why he has been going to Ellerslie.”