Former champion stallion Savabeel, who passed away at his Waikato Stud home base in June this year, showed what a loss he has been to the local breeding industry thanks to two impressive winners early in the day at Matamata.
Justin Case and Magice contributed to a memorable season for Kris Shailer in his return to the training ranks last term, and he is hoping they can continue their form into the new season.
Like many trainers in the north, Kris Shailer is keeping a close eye on the weather forecast as Cyclone Vaianu gets set to rear its ugly head over the weekend.
Kris Shailer won the Gr.3 Matamata Slipper (1200m) four years ago with Alabama Gold when training in partnership with Stephen Autridge, and this year he is hoping to win it in a solo capacity.
Regally-bred colt Magice has plenty of pressure to live up to his family name, but he will begin that challenge when he makes his debut in the Arawa Park Hotel 2YO 1150 at Rotorua on Wednesday.
