AWAPUNI TRACKWORK

 

Miss Annaliese looked well and truly ready to put another win on the board on Thursday when she worked in fine fashion during a quiet gallop session at Awapuni this morning.All fast work took place on the plough (good), where Miss Annaliese (r75 1200m) was paired with talented two-year-old Lady de Chine over 800m in 50.7, the last 600 in 37.7. Miss Annaliese won her maiden race (1340m) at the same meeting 12 months ago.

 

Their stablemate Zennista had Kelly Myers in the saddle when working alone over 800m in 50.8, the last 600 in 37.6, while a Volksraad two-year-old and a Haradasun two-year-old, both with Grant Searle, took 51.4 and 38.7. Karla Bruni covered 1000m in 1.6.5, the last 600 in 38.2, while Jamomiti and a Gold Centre gelding stablemate left 800m behind in 51.2 and 38.2. Wanganui entrants Masih Chiantik (mdn mile) and Shining Pearl (mdn 3yo mile) went 52 and 39.1. My O'Reilly ran 1000m and picked up dual Wanganui acceptor Informant on the journey to come home the last 600 in 39.7. Maximum Gold and Pay Dirt were timed 800m in 55.2, the last 600 in 40.9. La Danseur, another dual acceptor at Wanganui on Thursday, warmed up from the 800m to run home the last 600 in 41.3, and possible race rival Tindill (mdn mile) was kept to 800m in 57.4 and 42.8. Valley Gold cruised over 1000m in 1.10.4, the last 600 in 42, and his stablemate Wyban Angel recorded 1.12.3 and 43.2. Coatofmanycolours was not after time either with 800m in 59, the last 600 in 43.5, and Wanganui runner Lady Platinum (mdn 3yo mile) took 59.3 and 43.7.

 

Brackenwood and Fort Lincoln, race rivals at Ellerslie on Sunday, showed they are fit and ready for their Karaka Mile assignments with a top final trial at Awapuni this morning. All fast work took place on the plough (good), where Brackenwood and Fort Lincoln galloped the reverse way over 1000m in 1.6.2, the last 600 in 36. They tackle the $100,000 New Zealand Bloodstock Insurance Karaka 3yo Mile, with Darryl Bradley booked for Brackenwood, and Jonathan Riddell on Fort Lincoln, who caused an upset in the Karaka Million for two-year-olds the same day last year.

 

Beyond Belief, topweight for the Douro Cup at Trentham on Saturday, had trainer Lucy Tanner aboard when working nicely alone over 1000m in 1.6.1, the last 600 in 37.8. He has not collected a stake in two previous attempts at the metric mile distance. His stablemate Flemington (r65 2300m) galloped late in the session, but reeled off 1200m in 1.19.9, the last 600 in 37.5. The last-start Awapuni winner has a change of rider, with Craig Grylls picking up the mount. Wilbur ran a nice 800m in 51.1, the last 600 in 37.2, while Jamomiti and a Gold Centre gelding stablemate went together in 51.3 and 38.1. Pay Dirt and Shining Pearl, two more from that barn recorded 51.6 and 38.5. Wellington Cup chance Cassini began from the 1200m peg and cut out 1000m 1.6.2, the last 600 in 38.5, and she is a big threat if the track conditions stay good. Her stablemate Brotha Lite ran 800m in 51.4, the last 600 in 38.9.

 

The Jungle Boy, another Wellington Cup prospect, had Robert Hannam aboard over 1400m, warming to his task from the 1200m, which he covered in 1.27.6, coming the final 800m in 54.2 and last 600 in 39.1. Chrysolite, who goes to Auckland on Sunday for the special conditions 2100m, was timed 1000m in 1.5.3, the last 600 in 39.4, while Informant and My O'Reilly stayed together throughout 800m in 51.9, the last 600 in 39. Thorndon Mile runner Platinum Princess was let off with an easy 800m, the last 600 in 39 even, and Lipperty Lip, now with Roydon Bergerson, ran 1000m in 1.13.8, the last 600 in 39.1. Daiello sprinted 600m in 40.4. Pero, off to Trentham for the Summer Cup (r85 2400m), had Ryan Hurdle in the saddle over 1000m in 1.6.8, the last 600 in 40.3. Jonathan Riddell rides him raceday. Princess Annaliese and an O'Reilly filly stablemate sprinted 600m in 40.7. A Rock Of Gibraltar filly and an O'Reilly filly, both trained by Mike Breslin, ran 600m in 40.9, while a Bachelor Duke filly and a Keeninsky filly, both with Lisa Latta, did 800m in 55.9, the last 600 in 41.5.Cheimon and Tindill were not after time with 800m in 57.5, the last 600 in 41.8, and a Zed filly from the same barn sprinted 600m in 41.4, with a Darci Brahma gelding taking 41.9. Wellington runner L'Amour (Douro Cup) went an easy 800m in 59, the last 600 in 42.7, as did Thorndon Mile hope Justanexcuse, who took 60.6 and 42. Hermosa Novia (r65 mile) was kept to 800m in 58.9, the last 600 in 42.4, and Valley Gold did 1000m in 1.10.5 and 42. The latter's stablemate Powelka ran 800m in 56.6, the last 600 in 43.2.

 

Justanexcuse was at his brilliant best again in training at Awapuni this morning. Fast work took place on the middle of the No 1 grass (good) and on the plough (good), with one gallop recorded on the course proper (good), 10 metres out from the rail.

 

Justanexcuse, who tackles Saturday's Thorndon Mile at Trentham, used the No 1 grass and, with amateur rider Marita-Jane Frith in the saddle, was sensational running 800m in 46.1, the last 600 in 34.9. When the ground is firm, the No 1 grass is conducive to very fast times, but Justanexcuse could not have been more impressive and gives trainer Lisa Latta a strong hand at Trentham, with Platinum Princess in the Group 1 feature as well.

 

L'Amour and Platinum Dancer worked together over the same assignment in 47.2, the last 600 in 35.2, while their stablemates Stella Bella and Lady Platinum came up with 48.5 and 36.4. Phoenix Tycoon did nice work on her own over 800m in 48.8, the last 600 in 36.6, while Thorndon runner Platinum Princess had Capital Diamond for a partner over the same distance in 50.1 and 37.1. A Stravinsky gelding with Tony Kaye sprinted 600m in 39.8.

 

On the plough, Jilted and For The Fallen covered 800m in 51.8, the last 600 in 38.3, and a Howbaddouwantit gelding trained by Tracey Newton, went 1000m in 1.5.7, the last 600 in 38.9. Minnaleo and Pinot Davone took 1.6.6 and 39.6. Maximum Gold and Go Beauty sprinted 600m in 39.7, and Chrysolite worked the reverse way over 1000m in 1.10, the last 600 in 41.2.

 

On the course proper, Wellington Cup hopeful Cassini galloped over a mile, being timed from the 1200m in 1.15.5 and coming the final 800m in 49.4, the last 600 in 36.5, which was solid work.

 

 

Flemington and Karla Bruni, who covered 1000 metres in separate trials, both caught the eye in final gallops at Awapuni this morning. Fast work took place on the plough (good), with one gallop recorded on the middle of the No 1 grass (good).Flemington, in the special conditions 2100m at Marton on Saturday, used the plough and came in from the 1000m in 1.5.3, the last 600 in 36.9. He is due some reward for chalking up four seconds from his last five starts.Karla Bruni, who starts a new campaign in the r65 1200m, went a tick slower over 1000m in 1.5.4, the last 600 in 37.3. She won an open trial (1000m) at Waverley last month and will appreciate some easing of the ground. Jonathan Riddell rides both horses.

 

Time honours went to Justanexcuse (open 1400m), who skipped over 800m in 48.4, the last 600 in 35.7. That's not unusual for the son of No Excuse Needed, who is a last-start winner of the weight-for-age Harcourts Challenge Stakes on his home track. Devil Keeper and Polly Flinders (by Express Duke), both trained by Stephen Gillies, did well to record 1.3 for 1000m, the last 600 in 37.5, and a Volksraad maiden stablemate took 1.6.2 and 37.7. For The Fallen (by Pentire) and unraced maiden Time And Tide (by Handsome Ransom), both with Mike Breslin, worked over 800m in 51.4, the last 600 in 37, and last-start winner Galaxy Star (r85 1200m) came up with 51.8 and 37.7. Logicality (special conditions mdn) went alone over 1000m in 1.3, the last 600 in 38.7, and stablemate Kindacool clocked 1.3.9 and 38.8. Kiwi Lad, off to Hastings on Sunday (mdn 2100m) ended with 600m in 38.5. Marton Cup runner Sacha and last-start dead-heat winner City Chic (r65 3yo 1400m) ran 800m in 52.8, the last 600 in 38.3, while unraced maiden Warking Tallking (by Falkirk) and a Handsome Ransom filly , both with Mike Breslin, took 53.2 and 38.7.

 

Upper Cut (special conditions mdn) and unraced Brotha Lite (by Electronic Zone) left 800m behind in 51.4, the last 600 in 39.1, while Stephen Mercer's Dirty Harry, in the maiden 1400m at Hastings, and a Coats Choice maiden with Mark Oulaghan did 53 and 39.6. Drift and Inca Park (by Thorn Park) galloped 800m in 54.3, the last 600 in 39.7, and Tulip required 54.6 and 39.9. A Handsome Ransom filly and an Ishiguru gelding, both with Jeff Lynds, took 55.9 and 39.5. Pericles, in at Hastings (mdn 2100m) worked alone over 1000m in 1.5.3, the last 600 in 39, and Marton entrant Stella Bella (r65 1600m), who will race in blinkers on Saturday, had Hastings runner Ciron (mdn 3yo mile) alongside over 800m in 54.7, the last 600 in 40.8. Sunday acceptor Pinot Davone (mdn 1400m) went with Snax over an even 800m in 55.3, the last 600 in 40.4, while Sadlers Rock and Lieutenant Lincoln, both in the special conditions maiden (2100m) at Marton were kept to 1.10.4 and 40.3 for 1000m. Last-start winner Kings Court (r65 3yo 1400m) worked a casual 800m in 56.4, the last 600 in 41.7, and L'Amour (r85 mile) did similar work with 56.9 and 42.3. A Darci Brahma 2-year-old and one by Octagonal, both with Roydon Bergerson, sprinted 600m in 43.4.

 

Karaka Million hopeful Lady de Chine and Galaxy Star were in fine form in a training gallop at Awapuni this morning. All fast work took place on the plough (good), where Lady de Chine and Galaxy Star were paired over a smart 800m in 49.1, the last 600 in 35.2.

 

Footloose did nice work on his own over 1000m in 1.3.2, the last 600 in 36.7, while Kings Court and Karla Bruni went together in 1.5.4, coming the final 800m in 50.4, the last 600 in 36.8. Miss Lincoln and Tangolini covered 800m in 49.3, the last 600 in 36.6, and their stablemate Justanexcuse went alone in 49.7 and 36.8. Zennista, coming to hand well, ended with 600m in 36.6, and her stablemates Mt Difficulty, from the South Island barn, and Tricatchme left 800m behind in 49.9, the last 600 in 36.8. Fort Lincoln and Brackenwood matched strides throughout 800m in 50.4, the last 600 in 37.8, with Pentire Lad taking 51.1 and 37.9. Cheimon and Really Explosive warmed up from the 800m, which they cut out in 53.5, the last 600 in 37.8, while Capital Diamond and Ciron clocked 51.5 and 38.2. Phantom Storm and Sadlers Rock ended with 600m in 38.1. Beyond Belief had trainer Lucy Tanner aboard over 1000m in 1.6, the last 600 in 38.2, with Minnaleo and Jilted running 800m in 53, the last 600 in 38.8. Fready Cougar and Tiberius took 53.1 and 38.5.

 

City Chic had Miss Annaliese for a partner over 800m in 53.4, the last 600 in 38.7, and Kiwi Lad recorded 53.7 and 38.4. Sacha warmed up over 1000m (1.9.2) to run the last 600 in 38.8. Logicality and an unraced One Cool Cat began from the 1400m mark, being timed from the 800m in 51.7, the last 600 in 39.6. Lady Lincoln and Black Lambo stayed together over 800m in 52.1 and 39.1. Sergeant Lincoln worked on his own over 800m in 53, the last 600 in 39.2, while a Duelled filly and Authentic Rascal, two more with Lisa Latta, sprinted 600m in 39.3. Informant and Albus were kept to 800m in 53.5, the last 600 in 40.1, and Lipperty Lip, went alone in 55.8 and 40.6. Valley Gold had trainer Stephen Gillies in the saddle over 1000m in 1.7.2, the last 600 in 40.1. Hell Yeah ended with 600m in 40.2, and stablemate Hot Lips took 41.2. A Darci Brahma 2-year-old and an Octagonal 2-year-old, both with Roydon Bergerson, sprinted 600m in 42, while Set and Palmers Pride took 42.6. Denlee and a Bachelor Duke 2-year-old stablemate recorded 42.9.

Devil Keeper, trained by Stephen Gillies, was timed 1000m in 1.5.3, the last 600 in 37.2, and a Volksraad gelding stablemate took 1.7.4 and 38.5. Klose and Pinot Davone covered 800m in 50.7, the last 600 in 38.1. Miss Lincoln and Tangolini went together over 800m in 52.8, the last 600 in 38.8, while For The Fallen (by Pentire), who was unplaced on debut in September, and unraced Time And Tide (by Handsome Ransom), both with Mike Breslin, took 53.1 and 38.6. Logicality worked alone over 1000m in 1.4.5, the last 600 in 39, with Woodville entrants My O'Reilly (r75 2200m) and Deidre (mdn 1400m No 2) going together in 1.4.6 and 39.3. Kindacool did 1200m in 1.22.3, the last 600 in 39.7. Pericles (mdn 2100m) came to the finish of 800m in 52.3, the last 600 in 39.8, while his Woodville race rivals Platinum Purrfect and Tindill went together in 52.7 and 39.2. A Diamond Express maiden trained by Robert Grant, and a Bachelor Duke filly (Roydon Bergerson) sprinted 600m in 39.3.

 

Trial winner Prodigious (by Golan) and Warking Tallking (by Falkirk) , both trained by Mike Breslin, ran 800m in 53.3, the last 600 in 39, and Karla Bruni went on her own in 54.9 and 39.2. Valley Gold went an even 1000m in 1.7.7, the last 600 in 40.8. A Golan filly and stablemate Keep In Tune sprinted 600m in 42.7, while Drift and unraced three-year-old gelding Inca Park (by Thorn Park) took 42.9.

Impressive Boxing Day maiden winner Kings Court and Coatofmanycolours, who has been freshened, worked nicely in company at Awapuni this morning.All fast work during a light training session took place on the plough (good), where Kings Court, trained by Suzanne Gordon, and Coatofmanycolours (Lucy Tanner) went together over 1000m in 1.7.4, coming the final 800m in 51.4, the last 600 in 37.5. Both horses are entered for Woodville-Pahiatua on Saturday, but Kings Court will probably be saved for the Marton meeting at Awapuni a week later.

 

Time honours went to Woodville runner Primed And Ready, who started in front of  stablemate Our Great Empire over 1000m, but they were locked together soon after, running the distance in 1.5, the final 800m in 49.7. Primed And Ready was ahead again at the finish, being timed the last 600 in 37 even. He has been freshended since racing at Tauherenikau in mid-November. Iamishwara and a Golan 2-year-old, both with Tony Kaye, skipped over 800m in 49.9, the last 600 in 37, and Golden Miss ran a nice 1000m in 1.5.9, the last 600 in 38.5. Flemington, who goes to Woodville on Saturday, covered 1000m in 1.7.1 and he came the final 800m in 53, the last 600 in 38.7. Macadamia and Pay Dirt matched strides throughout 800m in 53.1, the last 600 in 39, while Nuits St Georges, on his own, took 53.5 and 39.3.Vronskii was sent 1000m in 1.9.8, the last 600 in 40.7, and Samsi was not after time with 800m in 58.4 and 41.5. Deidre went a quiet 1000m in 1.12.5, the last 600 in 43.1, and Hell Yeah was kept to 800m in 59 and 43.2.

Top sprinter Tip The Wink and talented stablemate Klose looked on target for Ellerslie on Boxing Day when they galloped together at Awapuni this morning. The majority of fast work was on the plough (good), but they used the course proper (good), about five metres out.

 

Tip The Wink (open 1200m) and Klose (r85 1400m) worked reverse way (right-handed) and warmed up from the 1000m to be at a good clip from the 800m, the last 600 in 36.8, and they finished together. Tip The Wink, who is in foal to High Chaparaal, will be using the Boxing Day race as a final-leadup to the Railway Stakes a week later. She finished third in the Railway last year. Trainer Mike Breslin was disappointed with the Stravinsky mare's race at Awapuni last start, and said the seven-year-old will be retired if she does not go well on Boxing Day. Jonathan Riddell will ride both horse at Ellerslie.

 

On the plough, Platinum Street drew attention to her prospects at Awapuni on Boxing Day (r65 mile) when she worked with a postponed gelding stablemate over 800m in 48.5, the last 600 in 36. A Howbaddouwantit maiden with Tracey Newton and a King's Chapel maiden with James Taylor went together over 800m in 48.7, the last 600 in 36.1. Black Sapphire (mdn 3yo 1200m), who has recorded two fine seconds in as many raceday starts so far, had a His Royal Highness maiden of Greg Lambert's alongside over 800m in 48.9, the last 600 in 36.2. Footloose (mdn mile) worked alone over a nice 1000m in 1.2.5, the last 600 in 37.7. He has trained on nicely after a debut third at Trentham in October. Race rival Il Capo (balloted out) and Minnaleo recorded 1.3.2 and 37. Kings Court (mdn 1300m), another big improver after a debut third, had Show The Beel (r75 2300m) for a partner over 1000m in 1.7, increasing the tempo to come in from the 800m in 51, the last 600 in 37.1. Devil Keeper was timed 1000m in 1.2.9, the last 600 in 37.5, while Karla Bruni, resuming in Boxing Day's r65 1200m, went with Denlee over 800m in 50.8, the last 600 in 37.4. Karla Bruni won an open trial (1000m) at Waverley a few weeks ago.

A Fastnet Rock colt and an Any Suggestion gelding, both trained by Mike Breslin, sprinted 600m in 37.6, and Slipperywhenwet covered 800m in 50.9, the last 600 in 38.1.

 

Smart Molly left 1000m behind in 1.3.5, the last 600 in 38.2, and Flemington required 1.5.9 and 38.1. La Bella Sands, who debuts in the maiden 1300m on Boxing Day, skipped over the distance in 1.3.9 and 38.3. Zennista went an easy 800m in 52, the last 600 in 38.9, and Chrysolite took 52.3 and 38.6. Vronskii (mdn mile) worked alone over 1000m in 1.6.2, the last 600 in 38.9. An O'Reilly gelding and a Postponed gelding, both with Peter Hurdle, sprinted 600m in 39.6. The Oysterman and a Coat's Choice gelding stablemate were timed 600m in 39.2, while Boxing Day debutante Monnie (by Duelled) and City Chic went an easy 800m in 56.2, the last 600 in 41.3.

Promising two-year-old and Karaka Million prospect Lady de Chine and former Karaka Million winner Fort Lincoln impressed in training at Awapuni this morning. All fast gallops took place on the plough (good), where Lady de Chine and Fort Lincoln went the reverse way over 800m in 48, the last 600 in 35.2, which was excellent work. Lady de Chine (Fastnet Rock-Crepe de Chine), a $250,000 purchase from the Karaka yearling sales who races in the Lincoln Farm colours, has had one raceday outing for a third to Taoist Master and Mt Eden at Trentham (1000m) just over two weeks ago.

 

Miss Marauder, third at Wanganui last start, warmed up from the 800m (50.5) to run home 600m in 35.6, and her stablemate Kiwi Lad sprinted 600m in 35.9. Lady Platinum and Sadlers Rock were paired over 800m in 48.6, the last 600 in 36, and Grouse, in the hands of Robert Hannam, took 49.7 and 37.5. It will not surprise if she picks up a race over the holiday period. Footloose (by Istidaad), who finished third at Trentham on debut, caught the eye with his 1000m in 1.3.1, the last 600 in 37.2, and has trained on nicely. Tricatchme and unraced Darci Brahma gelding Ciron covered 800m in 50.3 and 37. What Happened and a Deadly Storm gelding were paired over 800m in 50.3, the last 600 in  37.5, while Our Great Empire and a Yachtie filly came up with 50.4 and 37.2. City Chief required 50.9 and 37.3. Gold Wedding shaded unraced three-year-old gelding Authentic Rascal (by Howbaddouwantit) after 800m in 51.1, the last 600 in 37.8, while Tangolini and Angel Del Dinero ended with 37.9.

 

La Bella Sands (by His Royal Highness), who missed a debut run at the abandoned meeting at Otaki last week, went hard early over 800m in 50, the last 600 in 38.2, with Vanished and Stately, working together, clocking 51.9 and 38.5. L'Amour had Miss Lincoln for a partner over 800m in 52.4, the last 600 in 38.9, while Karla Bruni, who won an open heat (1000m) at the Waverley trials a few weeks ago, and stablemate Denlee (by One Cool Cat) took 52.8 and 38.9. Really Explosive and Cheimon went together over 800m over 800m in 52.9, the last 600 in 38.8, with Lizzie's Girl and Miss Annaliese running it in 53.5 and 39. Jilted and Pinot Davone sprinted 600m in 38.9. Kindacool ran a nice even 1000m in 1.5.8, the last 600 in 39.1, while a San Luis four-year-old mare and a Bachelor Duke maiden, both trained by Lisa Latta, ran 800m in 53.6, the last 600 in 39.3. Fready Cougar and Royal Tramp recorded 53.5 and 39.6. The Oysterman and a half-brother to Clarence went an easy 800m in 55.9, the last 600 in 39.4, and That'sourexcuse was kept to 54.5 and 40. Wyban Angel covered 1200m in 1.22.3, the last 600 in 40.9. Mike Breslin-trained unraced three-year-old stablemates Prodigious (Golan-Venezuela) and Time And Tide (Handsome Ransom-Sea Shells) sprinted 600m in 40.1, and Powelka ended 1000m with 800m in 55.4, the last 600 in 42.1.

Hotel Coachman Manawatu Cup candidate Fazza ran an outstanding final trial at Awapuni this morning. Fast work took place on the outside of the course proper, against the rail on the No 1 grass and on the plough after light rain overnight.

 

Fazza used the course proper and, with stable apprentice Gemma Hayward aboard, he worked away from the mile, warming to his task and picking up Swipe at the 1200m to come in from there in 1.17.7, the final 800m in 49.4 and last 600 in 35.7. Fazza was clear of Swipe at the finish, indicating he is right on his game for another Cup victory at Awapuni, where he has already won two Feilding Gold Cups, the most recent at his last start. Race rival Authentic Desire used the No 1 grass and had Darryl Bradley in the saddle over 800m in 50.6, the last 600 in 37.5, a time that surprised his rider and this clocker because he didn't appear to be going that quick. Justanexcuse, who worked brilliantly on the plough on Tuesday, used the No 1 grass  this morning and went a much quieter 800m, the last 600 in 40. He tackles the weight-for-age Harcourt's Challenge Stakes (1400m) on Saturday.Cordova Bay (r85 1200m) was kept to 800m in 56.3, the last 600 in 41.3, and stablemate Zerbreeze (r75 mile) took 59.9 and 43.8.

 

On the plough, Beyond Belief (r85 1200m) rubber stamped his fitness when working in blinkers and he had trainer Lucy Tanner aboard over a smart 800m in 48.9, the last 600 in 36.8. He will wear blinkers on Saturday on the recommendation of his jockey David Walsh. Stella Bella drew attention to her prospects for the r65 1400m when running 1000m 1.5.7, the last 600 in 36.6, and Finkican (r65 2300m) covered 800m in 50, the last 600 in 36.5. His stablemate Miss Marauder took 51.1 and 36.9. A colt by Magnus and a gelding by Thorn Park, both trained by Lisa Latta, sprinted 600m in 37.2, and first-day Manawatu maiden winner Logicality left 1000m behind in 1.4.2, the last 600 in 38.1. She backs up in Saturday's special conditions mile. Race rival Hermosa Novia and McDaids matched strides throughout 1000m in 1.7.1, the last 600 in 38. Klose, who has 3kg claiming apprentice Katia Scallan aboard in the r85 1200m on Saturday, cut out 800m in 52.4, the last 600 in 38.2, while Fort Lincoln and an Elvstroem gelding stablemate clocked 53 and 38.3. Temple View, now trained at Awapuni, ran 800m in 53, the last 600 in 38.8, and Smart Molly, in Saturday's r65 2300m, covered 1200m in 1.19.9, the last 600 in 38.6. Cup runner Sacha ended with 600m in 39.1. Greg Lambert's Duelled gelding did a quiet round before running 1000m in 1.8.8, the last 600 in 39.2, and Manawatu entrant Tidal Wave (r75 mile) was kept to 800m in 53.2, the last 600 in 39.9. Powelka was timed 1000m in 1.6.6, the last 600 in 40, and stablemate Wyban Angel went 1200m in 1.24, the last 600 in 40.6. Gold Wagon (special conditions 1400m) was not after time with 800m in 56.5 and 41.1. City Chief ended with 600m in 41.7. Manawatu Cup candidate Cassini was sent 1000m in an easy 1.10.2, the last 600 in 42.3, and Carmarthen Bay, who won at the Waverley trials last week (1000m) was kept to 1.11.5 and 43.9.

Talented sprinter-miler Justanexcuse was simply brilliant working at Awapuni this morning.Fast work took place on the plough (good), with one gallop recorded on the outside of the course proper, with Justanexcuse used the plough and had amateur rider Marita-Jane Frith aboard over a very smart 800m in 47.4, the last 600 in 35.1. They don't work much quicker than that on the plough here.

 

His stablemates Tick Tock Turbo, who goes to Otaki on Thursday for a r85 benchmark 1400m, and Brackenwood lost no kudos with 800m in 48.3, the last 600 in 36.3. It was solid work. Cordova Bay and Bar Keeper covered 800m in 50.2, the last 600 in 36.7, and Finkican, working alone, took 51.5 and 36.9. Otaki maiden runners (1200m) Tricatchme and Lizzie's Girl went together in 50.1 and 37.3, with Kiwi Lad (mdn 2100m) taking 50.7 and 37.3. Pericles was timed 1000m in 1.4.8, the last 600 in 37.8, while Primed And Ready and a stablemate by Yachtie came up with 1.7.2 and 37.5. Little Drummer Boy and a Snitzel youngster ran 800m in 51.5, the last 600 in 37.5. Platinum Zana and Stella Bella matched strides throughout 800m, the last 600 in 37.1, while Gold Wedding and Sadlers Rock ended with 37.4, with Galaxy Star and Stately finishing with 38 even. Manonamission had Otaki runner Zane Bay (r75 2100m) for a partner over 1000m in 1.3.9, the last 600 in 38, and Flemington (mdn 2100m) picked up Coatofmanycolours (r65 1300m) at the 1000m to run the distance in 1.4, the last 600 in 38.5, with Flemington ahead. Klose and Il Capo stayed together throughout 800m in 51.8, the last 600 in 38.3, while Zerbreeze and Surreal Storm required 51.8 and 38.7. Kindacool left 1000m behind in 1.4.8, the last 600 in 38.7. Argenteuil and Denlee returned 1.6.3 for 1000m, the last 600 in 38.7, and Captain Francis, working on his own, came up with 1.6.6 and 38.9. Margarets Own warmed up from the 1000m to clock 1.7.1, the last 600 in 38.8. Otaki entrant Enterprise Lady (mdn 3yo 1200m) ran 800m in 53.1, the last 600 in 38.7, while Jerrico and a Darci Brahma 3-year-old gelding stablemate ended with 600m in 38.2.

 

Ruthless Tycoon and Cheimon finished their assignment with 38.9. Footloose (by Istidaad), placed third on debut at Trentham (1350m) in October covered 1000m in 1.5.5, the last 600 in 39, and the Oulaghan-trained 5-year-old is in the maiden mile on Thursday. Smart Molly registered 1.6.2 and 39.3. Slipperywhenwet sprinted 600m in 39.4, while Prodigious and Deft, stablemates with Mike Breslin, took 39.9. Otaki maiden mile entrants Vronskii and Tulip galloped 1000m in 1.8.6, the last 600 in 39.1. Manawatu Cup leading prospect Cassini was at a good clip from the 1400m mark and was timed 1200m in 1.21.4, the last 600 in 39.8, while Albus and Sir Thomas were solid early over 1000m in 1.4.5, easing to run the last 600 in 40.1.Miss Lincoln and Vanished went together over 800m in 53.6, the last 600 in 40, and The Oysterman took 54.9 and 40.9. Testa Rossa mare Sivocci, trained by Jeff Lynds, covered 1000m in 1.7.9, the last 600 in 40.4. That'sourexcuse ended his work with 600m in 40.5, as did Conquistador. Time And Tide (by Handsome Ransom) and For The Fallen (by Pentire), both with Mike Breslin, sprinted 600m in 41.2 as did their stablemates Keep In Tune and a Lucky Unicorn filly. Upper Cut left 800m behind in 54.6, the last 600 in 41.7, while a One Cool Cat 2-year-old and one by Riviera, both with Ashley Meadows, ended with 600m in 41.6. La Bella Sands, who debuts at Otaki on Thursday for Mark Oulaghan, finished off with 600m in 42.4, while Good One Glady and Sand Princess were restricted to three-quarter pace.

 

On the course proper, Manawatu Cup runner Fazza and Swipe matched strides over 1200m in 1.16, coming in from the 800m in 50.4, the last 600 in 37.8.

Reasons Unknown will be at long odds in the Group 3 EziBuy Eulogy Stakes on Saturday, but her final gallop at Awapuni this morning was full of merit. Fast work took place on the plough (good) and on the outside of the No 1 grass (dead).

 

Reasons Unknown and Logicality (mdn f&m mile) worked together on the plough and cut out 1000m in 1.3.7, the last 600 in  37.5. Both horses earned admirers for their respective events. Their stablemate and Wanganui Cup winner Cassini showed she was right up on her game with 1000m on her own in 1.2.3, the last 600 in 37.2. She holds nominations for the City Of Auckland Cup (2400m) on New Year's Day and the Wellington Cup (2400m) at the end of January. Go Danny, who heads north for the Waikato Times Gold Cup rounded off his preparation with a sound 800m in 52.8, the last 600 in 38.8. He went a mighty race in the Counties Cup and could the giant-killer at Te Rapa. Grouse, not without a chance in the r75 1400m, had Robert hannam aboard over 800m in 50.5, the last 600 in 38.1, while Liberator and Macadamia, working together, took 51.7 and 38.9.

 

Kindacool skipped over 1000m in 1.5, the last 600 in 38.8, while Pinot Davone was a few length clear of an O'Reilly gelding stablemate early over 800m in 52.6, but the pair finished together to clock the last 600 in 38.1. Samsi, in Saturday's r65 1200m, ended with 600m in 38.6, while Gilmour's Girl (r65 2100m) and News Boy did a quiet round and a half, finishing off with 600m in 38.9. Iamishwara sprinted 600m in 38.

Miss Annaliese (r65 1200m) and a Pentire gelding stablemate covered 800m in 54.2, the last 600 in 39.4, while Anagram (r65 1200m) and stablemate Denlee took 54.8 and 39.9. Recherche (mdn f&m mile) required 55 and 39.6. The Oysterman (by Yamanin Vital), was timed 800m in 56, the last 600 in 41.5, and Argenteuil was kept to 56.4 and 41.7. A Fastnet Rock colt and an Any Suggestion gelding, 2-year-olds with Mike Breslin, sprinted 600m in 41.3. Our Centrefold (r65 mile) worked over a quiet 800m in 57.6, the last 600 in 42.3.

 

On the No 1 grass, 2-year-old Little Drummer Boy had That'sourexcuse for a partner over 800m in 50, the last 600 in 37.8, and L'Amour (r85 mile) went alone in 50.4 and 37.7. Authentic Desire, who tackles the Cup Prelude, had Darryl Bradley in the saddle over 800m in 53.1, the last 600 in 40.1, while Lizzie's Girl (mdn 1300m) and stablemate Really Explosive took 50.3 and 38.1. What Happened (r65 2100m) recorded 53.6 and 41.4.

Ezibuy Eulogy Stakes candidate Capital Diamond and stablemate Cordova Bay impressed in semi-final training at Awapuni this morning. The majority of fast work took place on the plough (good), where Capital Diamond and Cordova Bay were paired over a strong 800m in 47.5, the last 600 in 35.4, which was an excellent gallop. Capital Diamond will be having her first start at the Manawatu meeting on Saturday since finishing third to Planet Rock and Abeautifulred in the One Thousand Guineas at Riccarton early last month.

 

Go Danny and Sky Hawk were responsible for a very smart workout of their own, covering 1000m together in 1.1.6, the last 600 in 36.6, while Gold Wedding and Sadlers Rock lost no kudos with their 800m in 49.1, the last 600 in 36 even. La Danseur, a Le Bec Fin maiden unplaced in her two raceday outings so far, drew plenty of attention with her 800m in 49.3, the last 600 in 36.1, with Authentic Desire (Cup Prelude) and Platinum Sage, working together, taking 49.5 and 36.9. What Happened and Lady Platinum came to the finish of 800m in 49.8, the last 600 in 36, while Ruthless Tycoon and Cheimon took 50 and 36.9. Jilted and dual Otaki trial winner Kings Court (by Falkirk) clocked 51 and 36.8.Angel Del Dinero had Miss Lincoln for a partner over a 600m dash in 36.7, and Reuben Thorn left 1000m behind in 1.2.1, the last 600 in 37.7, with Lisa Latta's Lonhro filly running 800m in 49.8, the last 600 in 37.

 

Sacha (Cup Prelude) and Tricatchme matched strides throughout 800m in 49.9, the last 600 in 37.3, while their stablemates Jack's Point and Platinum Dancer required 50.2 and 37.1. Tip The Wink (open 1200m) and Klose ended with 600m in 37 even. Eulogy Stakes entrant Reasons Unknown, working alone, went hard early over 1000m in 1.2.1, easing a shade to complete the last 600 in 38.2. She has recorded a win and a second so far from her three raceday appearances. Miss Centrefold had amateur rider Karen Bruce aboard over 800m in 49.4, the last 600 in 38, while a Gold Centre gelding from the Latta barn took 51.7 and 38.6. Recherche, trained by Matthew Eales, sprinted 600m in 38.9. Stuertzer and Good One Glady went together over 1000m in 1.4.1 and came the final 800m in 50.7, the last 600 in 38.3, and Chrysolite, working alone, covered the same distance in 1.4.2 and 38.5. Stately and an Elusive City maiden stablemate were timed 800m in 52, the last 600 in 38.6, and Pero, who works better in company, covered 1000m in 1.5.4, the last 600 in 39.6. Logicality recorded 1.5.9 and 39.7.

 

Gold Wagon, in at New Plymouth on Thursday (mdn 3yo 1400m), and unraced O'Reilly 4-year-old Fraggle Rock were kept to 800m in 55.8, the last 600 in 39.8, and Our Great Empire ran 1000m in 1.12, the last 600 in 39.9. Gilmour's Girl did a quiet round before galloping 1200m in 1.18.7, the last 600 in 39.6, and an unraced 4-year-old brother to Electriclite in the Oulaghan barn went 1000m in 1.6.3, the last 600 in 40. A Perfectly Regal 2-year-old with Trina Marshall sprinted 600m in 41.9. My O'Reilly, in the r65 1800m at New Plymouth on Thursday, had Ryan Hurdle in the saddle over 1000m in 1.9.8, the last 600 in 42, and Devil Keeper (by Keeper) took 1.9.7 and 42.3. A Gold centre filly and one by Lucky Unicorn, both with Lisa Latta, sprinted 600m in 42.4, and Hell Yeah  took 42.9.

 

 On the No 1 grass, Pentire Lad, in the r75 1400m at Manawatu, skipped over 800m in 49.1, the last 600 in 37 even

Last-start Riccarton winner and Wellington entrant L'Amour rubber-stamped her fitness in training with an eye-catching final trial at Awapuni this morning.

 

All fast work was on the plough (good), where L'Amour skipped over 800m in 48.3, the last 600 in 36.2. Any rain about would be welcomed with open arms.  Ashley Meadows-trained stablemates Fling and McDaids, who both tackle the maiden mile at Wellington, drew attention to their prospects with a strong 1000m in 1.2.7, the last 600 in 37.7. It was good work. Masih Chiantik worked alone over 800m in 50.3, the last 600 in 37.3, and her maiden form has improved immensely. Coupland's Mile winner and Captain Cook Stakes entrant Platinum Princess covered the distance in 50.9 and 37.5.  Waipukurau runner Wilbur did well to cut out 1000m in 1.4.8, the last 600 in 37.9, with Wellington entrant Flemington (mdn mile) and Coatofmanycolours (r65 1400m) taking 1.5.8 and 37.4 when working together. Our Great Empire had apprentice Mathew Ward in the saddle over 800m in 51, the last 600 in 37.8, while Macadamia and How True went together in 51.5 and 37.6. Minnaleo and Pinot Davone took  51.7 and 37.9.

 

Final Warning and He Kin Be Famous, two unraced maidens with Mike Breslin, skipped over 800m in 52.4, the last 600 in 37.9, and Wellington 2-year-old debutant Iamishwara sprinted 600m in 38.8.  Gold Card was sent 1000m in 1.5.2, the last 600 in 38.7, and Gilmour's Girl did a quiet round  before galloping from the 1000m in 1.5.5, the last 600 in 38.2. Waipukurau runners Platinum Purrfect and Vanished ended 800m with 600 in 38.5. Wotabuzz, in the benchmark r85 3200m race at Wellington, covered a mile, but was timed from the 1200m in 1.19.1, coming the final 800m in 50.9, the last 600 in 38. His stablemate Smart Molly (r65 2400m) went post-to-post, with the 1200m taking 1.19, the last 600 in 38.4. Surreal Storm (r85 1400m) looked fit for his Wellington assignment when running 800m in 51.7, the last 600 in 38.4, and stablemate Grouse (r75 1200m), who should get some of the money on Saturday, took 51.8 and 38.4. Black Sapphire, just beaten on debut at Tauherenikau, had Greg Lambert's Duelled gelding for a partner over 800m in 52.6, the last 600 in 38.3, and Jerrico, off to Wellington (3yo 1400m) required  52.3 and 38.5. He will make his presence felt.

Galaxy Star and Surreal Storm could not have been more impressive in semi-final work for Wellington when galloping at Awapuni this morning. The majority of fast work took place wide out on the course proper in cold, blustery conditions on a dead track. Some good times were recorded.

 

Galaxy Star (r75 1200m) and Surreal Storm (r85 1400m) were paired over a very smart 800m in 47, the last 600 in 34.8, which was brilliant work. Galaxy Star (2 wins) finished second to Final Touch at Riccarton last start and has trained on nicely, while Surreal Storm (4 wins) has not raced since May, but was a dual winner in successive races at Waverley and Waipukurau in March. Jack's Point (r85 1400m) and Capital Diamond went together over 800m in 48.3, the last 600 in 35.6, and their stablemates Bar Keeper (r65 1400m) and Lady de Chine (by Fastnet Rock (2yo 1000m) were almost identical with 48.3 and 35.2. Grouse (r75 1200m) had former top rider Bruce Herd in the saddle when running 800m in 48.8, the last 600 in 36.3, and her stablemates L'Amour (r85 1400m) and Platinum Princess (Captain Cook Stakes) went together in 49.5 and 36.4. Lady Platinum (mdn mile) had Sunday's Waipukurau entrant Sand Princess for a partner over 800m in 51.1, the last 600 in 36.9, while Jilted and Tip The Wink recorded 51.6 and 36.4. The latter's stablemates, Il Capo  and Deft, came up with 50.6 and 37.2. Trentham runner Fort Lincoln and Jerrico, both in the 3yo 1400m, were sent 800m in 50.4, the last 600 in 37, and another last-start Manawatu winner Tidal Wave (r75 mile) clocked the same time on his own. How True and Sky Hawk completed the same task together in 50.9 and 37.1.

 

Trentham 2-year-old debutant Iamishwara (by Keeninsky), trained by Tony Kaye, came in from the 800m in 51, sprinting home the last 600 in 37.4. Waipukurau runners Sadlers Rock (mdn mile), unplaced on debut at Tauherenikau, and Adidazler (mdn 2100m) left 800m behind in 51.6, the last 600 in 37.3. Recherche(by Colombia) was timed 800m in 51.9, the last 600 in 37.5, while Trentham runner Fling (mdn mile) and Gilmour's Girl, both trained by Ashley Meadows, covered 1000m, the final 800m in 51.3 and last 600 in 38.2. Wotabuzz (r85 3200m) had jumps jockey Hayley Curran aboard over 1200m in 1.18.2, coming the final 800m in 51.3, the last 600 in 38.4. Fready Cougar and a Deadly Storm maiden matched strides over 800m in 51.6, the last 600 in 38.3. Anagram and stablemate Denlee (by One Cool Cat) cut out 800m in 52.5, the last 600 in 38.8, and City Chief took 53.8 and 38.5. Pero, My O'Reilly and Deidre went together over 800m, the last 600 in 38.2. Trentham runners Flemington (mdn mile) had stablemate Coatofmanycolours (r65 1400m) alongside throughout 1000m in 1.5.1, the last 600 in 38.7, and Footloose (by Istidaad) from the Oulaghan barn took 1.5.6 and 38 on his own. Upper Cut and Hikurangi Bill left 1200m behind in 1.17.4, the last 600 in 38.9, and Pericles covered 800m in 55.1 and 38.8. Klose was kept to 800m in 53.1, the last 600 in 39.1, with Carmarthen Bay taking 53.2 and 39.7.A His Royal Highness filly trained by Mark Oulaghan stable worked over 1000m in 1.9, the last 600 in 39, and stablemate Smart Molly, in at Trentham (r65 2400m), was sent 1200m in 1.20, coming the final 800m in 54.1, the last 600 in 40.8. Wyban Angel, in similar work, covered the distance in 1.23.6, with the sectionals taking 55 and 40.7. Gipsy Star (by Ishiguru), trained by Tracy Collis, sprinted 600m in 40.3, and Kiwi Lad took 40.8.

 

On the plough, Waipukurau entrant Witchy Woman (by Howbaddouwantit), unplaced on debut at Otaki in September, ended her work with 600m in 37.6. She is in the maiden 3yo 1200m.

  

Miss Marauder stole the show at Awapuni this morning as horses prepared for the Levin and Wanganui meetings on Friday and Saturday respectively.Fast work was held on the outside of the course proper (dead) and on the plough (good). Miss Marauder used the course proper and reeled off a bold 800m in 48, the last 600 in 35.8 and, despite having a lightweight track rider aboard, it was impressive work.

 

The Falkirk mare could prove her present form all wrong next time she steps out. Grouse and Platinum Dancer were paired over 800m in 49.5, the last 600 in 36.2, while Levin Classic runner San Rafael had Drift for a partner over 1000m in 1.3.7, coming the final 800m in 50.1, the last 600 in 36.7. Platinum Sage and Pentire Lad covered 800m in 50.2, the last 600 in 36.9, while a Foreplay 3-year-old colt and stablemate City Chief, who was placed third at Trentham last start, took 50.9 and 36.3. Bella Vi, fifth on debut at Awapuni, and Hang Seng went together over 800m in 51, the last 600 in 36.9, while Zerbreeze and Stella Bella required 49.9 and 37.3. Phantom Storm clocked 50.1 and 37.9. Hikurangi Bill worked alone over 1000m 1.4.1, the last 600 in 37.8, while Levin Classic entrant Brackenwood had What Happened alongside over 800m in 50.3, the last 600 in 37.4. Witchy Woman (by Howbaddouwantit), unplaced on debut in September, and a King's Chapel maiden, both with Matthew Eales, ran 800m in 51.9, the last 600 taking 37.8. Platinum Zana and Platinum Princess were on terms throughout 1000m in 1.8, increasing the tempo to come the final 800m in 51.5, the last 600 in 37.5, while Macadamia and Shining Pearl were timed 800m in 53.5 and 37.8. Princess Lincoln and a Fastnet Rock filly sprinted 600m in 37.4, and Iamishwara (by Keeninsky), trained by Tony Kaye, went alone in 38.1. Argenteuil and McDaids galloped together in 38 even. Stuertzer had apprentice Ryan Hurdle aboard over 1000m in 1.3.2, coming the final 800m in 50.8, the last 600 in 38.3, and Reasons Unknown, in similar work, recorded 1.5.2 and 51.9, the last 600 in 38.3 as well.

 

Cassini left 1000m behind in 1.4.2, the last 600 in 38.2, and stablemate Footloose (by Itsidaad), placed on debut at Trentham early last month, required 1.6.3 and 38.4. Upper Cut and Logicality, two more from the Oulaghan barn, ran 800m in 51.2, the last 600 in 38.1. Stately (by Bachelor Duke), who has not been seen on race day since winning on debut in June for Lisa Latta, had a Postponed gelding for a partner over 800m in 53.3, the last 600 in 38.3, while stablemates Fready Cougar and an O'Reilly gelding took 54.2 and 38.4. Saint Sissy covered 800m in 53.9, the last 600 in 39.2, while Good One Glady and Pheroz Tide took 54.3 and 39.8. Vanished and Sand Princess clocked 54.8 and 39.4. Finkican, who worked impressively last Thursday, ended with 600m in 39.2.

 

On the plough, Miss Darley began ahead of stablemate Gold Card and finished six lengths clear after 1000m in 1.3.1, the last 600 in 38.8, while Jamomiti and Sky Hawk were timed 1200m in 1.17.5, the last 600 in 38.4. Reuben Thorn was sent 800m in 51.7, the last 600 in 38.6, while Ransom Rosie and a Yachtie filly took 52.2 and 38 even. Kape Town covered 800m in 55.3, the last 600 in 41.1.

Levin Classic nominee Distill and stablemate Anagram were in fine touch at Awapuni this morning.The majority of fast work took place on the plough (good), with half a dozen gallops recorded against the rail on the No 1 grass (dead).

 

Distill and Anagram used the plough and cut out a bold 1000m in 1.4.6, the last 600 in 36.7. Trainer Roydon Bergerson might be ruing a missed chance to run Distill in the 2000 Guineas, but it may yet be a blessing in disguise with the Levin Classic in mind. Finkican did well to run a similar time on his own this morning, when he worked over 1000m in 1.4, the last 600 in 36.9, while Lizzie's Girl ran a nice 800m in 49.3, the last 600 in 36.5. Show The Beel and unraced stablemate Black Sapphire (by Sandtrap) drew plenty of attention after they completed 800m in 49.2, the last 600 in 37 even. Black Sapphire won a 2-year-old trial over 800m at Woodville (heavy) in June. Platinum Purrfect and an unnamed stablemate covered 1000m in 1.4.4, the last 600 in 37.9, while News Boy and Gilmour's Girl recorded 1.4.9 and 37.9. Argenteuil and a Falkirk gelding stablemate were timed 800m in 51.3, the last 600 in 37.8.Higgs Boson and Masih Chiantik stayed together throughout 800m in 51.4, the last 600 in 37.8, and a Pentire-Fifty Fifty filly took 51.5 and 37.6. A Colombia filly trained by Matthew Eales clocked 51.6 and 37.6.

 

San Rafael, who holds a nomination for the Levin Classic, and Il Capo ended 800m with 600 in 37.1, while Logicality and Reasons Unknown took the eye with their 1000m in 1.2.6, the last 600 in 38.7.September trial winner (1000m) Kings Court (by Falkirk) stretched out well over 800m in 50.8, the last 600 in 38.1. He is with Suzanne Gordon. Manonamission came to the finish of 1000m in 1.5.1, the last 600 in 38 even. Deft and Surf Patrol matched strides over 800m in 51.4, the last 600 in 38.1, and their unraced stablemates He Kin Be Famous (by Fast 'N' Famous) and Final Warning (by Spartacus) sprinted 600m in 38.9. Grouse had Robert Hannam in the saddle over 800m in 53.2, the last 600 in 39.2, while Phantom Storm and a Lonhro filly, two more from the Latta barn, took 53.9 and 39.3. Kiwi Lad and La Danseur registered 54 and 39.1. Sadlers Rock (by Rock of Gibraltar) and Tindill were paired over 800m in 54.1, the last 600 in 39.5, while Phoenix Tycoon and a Howbaddouwantit gelding stablemate took 54.5 and 39. Shining Pearl and Jamomiti had figures of 54.7 and 39.2. Hikurangi Bill worked over 1000m in 1.7.1, the last 600 in 39.8, and his stablemate Smart Molly did a quiet round before speeding up from the 1400m peg to run 1200m in 1.19, the last 600 in 39.7. Chrysolite was timed 1200m in 1.21, the last 600 in 40.6, and impressive last-start Awapuni winner Powelka had trainer Stephen Gillies aboard over 1000m in 1.8.5, the last 600 in 41.7.

 

On the No 1 grass, Stormy Lass and Jerrico were on terms throughout 800m in 48.2, the last 600 in 36.7, while their stablemates Platinum Sage and La Belle Femme required 49 and 36.8. Zane Bay and Hunter Street left 800m behind in 50.9, the last 600 in 37.9, while Royal Tramp and unraced Really Explosive (by O'Reilly), two more from the Latta barn, took 51.6 and 38.6. Tricatchme had Tick Tock Turbo for a partner over 800m in 51.7, the last 600 in 38.9, and Surreal Storm, ridden by Robert Hannam, came up with 52.3 and 40.2.

Gold Card and Miss Darley are racing at Tauranga on Saturday and both indicated at Awapuni yesterday that they will be a force to be reckoned with against their northern rivals. The majority of fast work was on the plough (good), with a few gallops on the No 1 grass (dead) and one against the rail on the course proper (slow).

 

Laurie Christensen-trained stablemates Gold Card (open 1400m) and last-start winner Miss Darley (r80 2100m) used the plough and worked the reverse way over a strong 1000m in 1.1, the last 600 in 36.1, which was impressive to say the least.  Ormond Road, who goes to Otaki on Thursday for a r80 2100m, had raceday rider Darryl Bradley aboard over 800m in 49.8, the last 600 in 36.8. She got her tongue over the bit when unplaced at Trentham on Labour weekend and looks a big improver. A Pentire-Fifty Fifty maiden cut out 800m in 51, the last 600 in 36.5, and Primed And Ready took 50.7 and 37.1. Beyond Belief, in the r70 1200m at Otaki, stretched out boldly over 1000m in 1.4.6, the last 600 in 37.3. Distill (r70 mile) covered 1200m in 1.18.5, the last 600 in 37.6, and Ha'penny looked deceiving when running 800m in 51.4, the last 600 in 37.7. A His Royal Highness filly in the Oulaghan stable ran 600m in 37.1. Stuertzer (mdn 2100m), was at a good clip from the start over 1000m in 1.2.8, coming the final 800m in 50.4, the last 600 in 38.7. She just missed out over 2100m at Trentham last start, finishing a short-head second to Watkins.

 

What Happened and Good One Glady, both in the r70 mile, were on terms throughout 800m in 50.2, the last 600 in 38, while Coatofmanycolours (mdn 1400m No 1) and Flemington (mdn mile) took 50.5 and 38.2. Hang Seng (mdn 1200m) left 800m behind in 52.1, the last 600 in 39.2, while Vanished and Stormy Lass required 53.6 and 39.5. A One Cool Cat maiden and a Gallant Guru maiden, both with Mark Oulaghan, sprinted 600m in 39. Tindill, off to Otaki (mdn mile), and Sadlers Rock (by Rock of Gibraltar) ended with 600m in 39.6, while unraced maidens He Kin Be Famous (by Fast 'N' Famous) and Final Warning (by Spartacus), both with Mike Breslin, took 39.8. Otaki entrant Zane Bay (r80 2100m) had Phantom Storm for a partner over 800m in 53.9, the last 600 in 40.2, while their stablemates Prince Lincoln (mdn 2100m) and Surreal Storm took 53.9 and 40.6.  Albus had Ryan Hurdle in the saddle over 800m in 54, the last 600 in 40.3, with Il Capo and Otaki runner Minnaleo (mdn 1400m No 1 taking 55.5 and 40.6. Miss Lincoln and a Snitzel filly stablemate sprinted 600m in 40.7. Colombia filly Recherche (mdn 1400m No 2) sprinted 600m in 41.2, and Myminkcoat (mdn 1200m) took 42.2. Both fillies debut on Thursday after a trial placing each. Sir Thomas (r70 mile) was kept to 1000m in 1.11.4, the last 600 in 43.8.

 

On the No 1 grass, Fort Lincoln went with stablemate Brackenwood over 800m in 52.9, the last 600 in 39.3 and both horses are in Thursday's r90 1400m. Pentire Lad, in the same race, ended with 600m in 40.5.

 

On the course proper, Capital Diamond finished clear of a Darci Brahma maiden after 800m in 50.1, the last 600 in 36.3.

Justanexcuse, who holds a nomination for next Wednesday's Coupland's Mile at Riccarton, worked in his usual good fashion at Awapuni this morning.Fast work was held on the plough (slow) and against the rail on the No 1 grass (heavy) during a quiet galloping seassion.

 

Justanexcuse used the plough and had amateur rider Mirita-Jane Frith in the saddle when working over 800m in 53.4, sprinting hard the last 600 in 37.8. He has been so consistent in the top grade this spring without winning. Time honours on the plough went to unraced three-year-old gelding Kings Court (by Falkirk), who went with a Pentire gelding over 800m in 50.4, the last 600 in 37.3. Kings Court, trained by Suzanne Gordon, won an Otaki trial (1000m) at the end of September.Jamomiti and Masih Chiantik matched strides over 800m in 51.7, the last 600 in 38.8, while Jack's Point and Fready Cougar took 55.5 and 38.9. Stormy Lass and Lincoln's Girl (by Show A Heart) clocked 54.5 and 40.2. Pheroz Tide (by Don Eduardo) and a Postponed gelding, both with Lisa Latta, were on terms throughout 800m in 55.6, the last 600 in 40.4.

 

Sadler's Rock (by Rock Of Gibraltar) and a Darci Brahma gelding, two more from the Latta barn, recorded 55.6 for 800m, the last 600 in 41.1, with Jakblak and Mulan Queen (by Volksraad) taking 55.6 and 41.6. Platinum Dancer had Kelly Myers aboard over 800m in 56.9, the last 600 in 42.8, while last Saturday's Feilding maiden winner Anagram ended with 600m in 43.5 as did her stablemates, a Falkirk three-year-old gelding and a One Cool Cat maiden. Miss Annaliese and a Snitzel gelding sprinted 600m in 43.7, and their stablemate Za Pak (by Stravinsky) went 800m in 59.1, the last 600 in 44..

 

On the No 1 grass, Surf Patrol and Tai Chi Queen were timed 800m in 55.5, the last 600 in 41.6, while a Handsome Ransom filly and a colt by Haradasun, both with Grant Searle, took 44.6.

 

 

Talented three-year-old Distill was impressive at Awapuni this morning, when all fast work took place on the plough (good).Conditions were excellent for galloping and, accordingly, times were smart.

 

Distill had Robert Hannam aboard over a brisk 1000m in 1.1.3, the last 600 in 35.7, but a trip to Riccarton for the 2000 Guineas on Saturday had not been confirmed. He finished unplaced in both the Hawke's Bay (dead) and Wellington guineas (heavy). Woodville debut winner Reasons Unknown (by Shinko King) and Logicality were paired over a solid 800m in 48.3, the last 600 in 36.5, while Riccarton dual entry Galaxy Star, wearing blinkers, and Phantom Storm went together in 48.8 and 36.6. Devil Keeper (by Keeper) and an Express Duke maiden did well to run 1000m in 1.2.6, the last 600 in 36.9, while How True and Sky Hawk covered 800m in 49.5, the last 600 in a quick 36.4. Cassini, who will holds a nomination for the Coupland's Mile at Riccarton next Wednesday, ran a slashing trial over 1400 metres, being timed from the 1200m in 1.16.1, coming the final 800m in 49.4, the last 600 in 37.3. Higgs Boson and a Gold Centre gelding from the same stable, ran 800m in 51.7, the last 600 in 37, and a Colombia filly from the Eales barn, sped over 800m in 48.8 and 37.3. An Electronic Zone in the Oulaghan stable ended with 600m in 37.4.

 

Riccarton entry Aldebaran Star (r75 1200m) had trainer Trina Marshall aboard over a strong 1000m in 1.4.2, the last 600 in 37.1, and Lucy Tanner's Beyond Belief (by Magic Ring) went 1.5.7, coming the final 800m in 50.8, the last 600 in 37.7. Show The Beel began from the 1000m mark and picked up maiden stablemate Black Sapphire (by Sandtrap) at the 800m to come in from there in 51.1, the last 600 in 37.6. Chrysolite and Upper Cut ended with 600m in 38.9. Drift and Il Capo matched strides throughout 800m in 51, the last 600 in 38.1, and Manonamission worked alone in 51.1 and 38.4. He Kin Be Famous (by Fast 'N' Famous) and Final Warning (by Spartacus), unraced maidens with Mike Breslin, sprinted 600m in 38.9. Paddy Owen, unplaced on debut in the Wellesley Stakes at Trentham, left 800m behind in 52.6, the last 600 in 38.5, while Adidazler and a Darci Brahma maiden stablemate took 52.5 and 38.7.

 

I'm Not Ticklish required 53.7 for 800m, the last 600 in 38.9, while Gilmour's Girl and News Boy (by Traditionally), who was unplaced at Woodville on Labour Day, ran 1000m in 1.12.7, the last 600 in 38.9. Pero, who is a dual entry for Riccarton on Saturday, was kept to 1000m in 1.5.1, the last 600 in 39.2. Trainer Peter Hurdle is leaning toward the r75 1800m for him. Brackenwood and an Elvstroem gelding stablemate ran 800m in 53.2, the last 600 in 39.1. Surreal Storm covered 800m in 54.1, the last 600 in 39.9, while Ruthless Tycoon and a Thorn Park filly, two more from the Latta barn, took 57.7 and 40.7. A Colombia filly in the Oulaghan stable sprinted 600m in 40.6. My O'Reilly, who will be entered for the second day at Riccarton, was timed 1000m in 1.7.8, the last 600 in 41.3, and Wyban Angel went an easy 1000m in 1.11.6, the last 600 in 42.3. Post Buster (by Postponed) and Shining Pearl (by Handsome Ransom), two maidens with Grant Searle, worked over a quiet 800m in 58.8, the last 600 in 42.2.