Michael Moroney has a pair of in-form New Zealand-bred prospects chasing feature events at Randwick on Saturday and is desperately hoping a third can also be presented with his opportunity.
Australian jockey Andrew Adkins has answered the call of trainers Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott and will cross the Tasman next week to ride Jaffira in the Gr.1 Auckland Thoroughbred Racing New Zealand Derby (2400m) at Te Rapa.
Dual Group One straight course winner Roch ‘N’ Horse is a possible starter in Saturday’s Gr.1 Oakleigh Plate (1100m) at Sandown after missing the Lightning Stakes (1000m) with a minor leg injury.
Roger James and Robert Wellwood have one confirmed Gr.1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) contender and will take their time before deciding if they double their hand.
Plans have been made for Asterix and Dragon Leap to cross the Tasman this year, but first the stablemates face ultra-competitive line-ups in their respective Group One engagements at Te Rapa.