AWAPUNI TRACKWORK

 

Thursday September 2nd

By RON GURNEY

Jungle Recipe, who has won his last two in succession, and Go Danny impressed in training at Awapuni this morning, though He's All Go and Iamthatiam took the eye when each worked alone. During a busy session, fast work took place on the plough (good) and on the outside of the heavy No 1 grass. Jungle Recipe and Go Danny used the plough and went together over 800m in 48.9, the last 600 in 37.2. They were at a good clip from the word go and revelled in their work. 

Time honours went to former northerner He's All Go (by Star Way), who was timed 800m in 49, the last 600 in 36.2. The 5-year-old is a lightly-raced maiden now in the stable of Jeff Lynds. Iamthatiam had trainer Tony Kaye in the saddle over 1000m in 1.2.8, the last 600 in 37.8, and Marea Alta, coming to hand again for Mark Oulaghan, posted 800m in 49.7, the last 600 in 37.6. Black Widow, trained by Tracy Collis, and Fortune's Gold (Michelle Mok) were paired over a nice 1000m in 1.4.5, the last 600 in 37.6, while Mary Pepper and Platinum Sage covered 800m in 50.3, the last 600 in 37.5. Repertoire and Sharp Chance galloped 800m in 51.5, the last 600 in 37.5, while a Keeper and a Shinko King, both with Lisa Latta, sprinted 600m in 37.8. Wanganui Guineas runner Barefoot, who worked in grand style on Tuesday, had Robert Hannam aboard again over 1000m in 1.7, the last 600 in 37.9, while Gold Card and Son Of Grace, working together, took 1.8.3 and 37.9 as well.

Lethal Lady went hard early over 1000m in 1.2.9, easing down to complete the last 600 in 38.3, and a Lowell gelding in the Gillies' barn, required 1.4.6 and 38.9. Phantom Storm sprinted 600m in 38.4. A Postponed filly and a Savabeel filly, both with Lisa Latta, ran 800m in 50.9, the last 600 in 38.5, while a Postponed colt and a Volksraad colt, both with Stephen Gillies, sprinted 600m in 38.2. L'Amour, in Saturday's 3-year-old Fillies' 1200m at Wanganui, and Ryder Stakes runner-up Zennista matched strides over 800m inn 53.8, the last 600 in 38.7, and The Twist (open 1200m) ended with 600m in 38.1. A Zabeel gelding and a Don Eduardo gelding, both with Adrian Bull, ran 1000m in 1.5.1, the last 600 in 38, and Cost Of Freedom, in the hands of David Walker, clocked 1.5.3 and 38.3. Adrian Bull's High Chaparral filly was sent 1000m in 1.8.9, the last 600 in 38.4, while Aladdin Prince sprinted 600m in 38.7. A My Halo and a Bachelor Duke, 2-year-olds with Gary Vile, dashed 600m in 38.5. A Don Eduardo filly in the Oulaghan stable ran 800m in 52.4, the last 600 in 39.3, while Galaxy Star and Tidal Wave (by Shinko King) sprinted 600m in 39.6, as did Platinum Lord. Pichola did a quiet round and a half before sprinting home 600m in 40.1. Cetelle dashed 600m in 40.4, with Auburn Beauty taking 40.9 as did a Zenno Rob Roy stablemate. My O'Reilly went 42.1.

On the No 1 grass, Wanganui entrant Macadamia (r80 1200m) had Sky Hawk alongside over 800m in 52.1, the last 600 in 38.7, and Authentic Desire, another in r80 1200m on Saturday, took 51.9 and 39.5. Just A Whisper (open 1200m), who is in great form, ended with 600m in 39.5, and Pania Rose (mdn 1200m) left 800m behind in 53.9, the last 600 in 40.5. She is knocking on the door. Wotabuzz, who goes to Auckland on Saturday for the r80 2100m, covered 1000m in 1.6.2, the last 600 in 40.8, while Great Northern Hurdles hope Waitaha Toa and Wanganui runner Yourhavinmeon went together in 1.8.9 and 40.6. Platinum Choice and What Happened, in the r90 mile at Wanganui, were timed 1000m in 1.10.2, the last 600 in 40.2, with Rising Tide taking 1.9.6 and 41.4, South Road 1.10 and 41.9, Watson Lagoon 1.10.4 and 41.5. Electronic Hoss ran 1000m in 1.11, the last 600 in 42.9, Cadonna 1.11.6 and 42.4, Just A Shout 1.10.1 and 43.2, Smart Molly 1.13.7 and 43.9, Electriclite 1.15.5 and 44. Great Northern hope Counter Punch ended 1200m with 800m in 60.3, the last 600 in 44.4.

On the outside of the heavy course proper, Miss Marauder, in the 3-year-old fillies' 1200m at Wanganui, and stablemate Wannabe Queen (r70 1340m) sprinted 600m in 40.8.

 

Tuesday August 31
BY RON GURNEY

Wanganui Guineas candidate Barefoot and his stablemate Happy Harry were among those to excel on the plough at Awapuni on Tuesday morning. Fast work took place on the plough (good) and on the outside of the heavy course proper after overnight rain, but the plough certainly looked the place to be.

Barefoot and Happy Harry were paired over a solid 1000m on the plough in 1.1.5, coming the final 800m in 48.7, the last 600 in 36.3. It was impressive work. Barefoot, trained by Adrian Bull, finished second to Sharp Princess in a trial over 1000m at Otaki last week and had won a trial over the same distance at Waverley three weeks before that. He has not raced since winning a maiden juvenile (800m) at Otaki in March at just his second start. His only other race was in the spring, when unplaced in the Welcome Stakes at Riccarton.

Top racemare Tip The Wink had stable apprentice Rosie Myers aboard when galloping with Primed And Ready (Jonathan Riddell) over 800m in 49.7, the last 600 in 36.4. This time was matched by Gary Vile's pair We Are Royal (by Royal Academy) and the unraced Pericles (by Savabeel). Waiana Gold, in the 3-year-old fillies' 1200 at Wanganui, went with Our Centrefold over 800m in an eye-catching 49, the last 600 in 37.3, and Borrack had jumps Cody Singer in the saddle over 800m in 50.2 and 37.4. Keepin It Up, in the maiden 1400m at Waverley tomorrow, had raceday rider David Walker aboard when working with Perfect Excuse over 800m in 50.8, the last 600 in 37.1. Relentless One (mdn hwt), a good third last start, left 1000m behind in 1.4.4, the last 600 in 37.9, while Noah's Delight and Liquid Goodness stayed together throughout 800m in 51, the last 600 in 37.8.

A Zabeel gelding and one by Don Eduardo, both with Adrian Bull, showed their improvement with 800m in 51.7, the last 600 in 38.7, while Mike Breslin's Dubawi filly and her stablemate, a gelding by Howbaddouwantit, took 52.3 and 38.6. Micheals Star did a quiet round and a half before sprinting home 600m in 38.7, while Ya Busted and a Faltaat filly stablemate clocked 39.2. Cindylotz and Jakblak covered 600m in 40.

On the course proper, Miss Marauder showed she was ready for the 3-year-old fillies' 1200m at Wanganui with a strong workout alongside stablemate Wannabe Queen (r70 1340m) over 800m in 53.4, the last 600 in 39.9. Time honours went to a No Excuse Needed maiden with Trina Marshall with 800m in 53.7, the last 600 in 38.2. Centrefold, off to Waverley tomorrow, also worked alone, covering 800m in 55, the last 600 in  40.8. Tick Tock Turbo and Sacha, both entered for the open 1200m at Wanganui, matched strides over 800m in 54.3, the last 600 in 41.2. They are fresh from racing at the Grand National meeting. Macadamia (r80 1200m) and unraced trial winner Eyeball (by Hawkeye) came to the finish of 800m in 56.7, the last 600 in 41.5, and former northerner Key Whiz, resuming in the r70 1650m at Waverley, took 57.6 and 41.

Black Lambo, in the r80 2000m on Saturday, had Excess alongside over 800m in 56.3, the last 600 in 42.1, with Finkican and Kiwi Lad (by Bahhare) taking 56.4 and 42.6, and Miss Lincoln and L'Amour 56.8 and 42.9. Wotabuzz, who races at Ellerslie on Saturday (r80 2100m) appeared to be revelling in his work over 1200m in 1.25.1, coming the final 800m in 57.4, the last 600 in 43.6. He is chasing three wins in succession. Kalgoorlie Gold galloped 1200m, being timed his final 800m in 57.7, the last 600 in 43.6, while Clarence, in similar work, recorded 58.2 and 43.9. Cent To Chat ended with 600m in 43.3. Golander and Par Avion covered 1000m in 1.12.1, the last 600 in 44.2, while Le Brun and Disdain (by High Chaparral) clocked 58.6 and 45.4. Finito went just under a minute for 800m, the last 600 in 45.2, as did his stablemate Henry Daniel. Counter Punch and Brushman, who head north this week to the Great Northern meeting at Ellerslie, went together the reverse way over 1400 metres, but were not timed.  

Thursday August 26
By RON GURNEY

Superturf looked ready to win his fourth race in succession at Hastings on Saturday judging by his solid final gallop at Awapuni this morning.A majority of fast work took place on the plough (heavy), where Superturf had raceday jockey Masa Tanaka aboard over 1000m in 1.5.9 and he came the final 800m in 51.3, the last 600 in 38.2. He tackles Saturday’s r80 mile.

Ping Pong (r70 1400m) drew attention to Hastings prospects with 800m in 51, the last 600 in 38, while Klose (special conditions 1200m) and Pichola took 51.9 and 38.4. Hatuma, who is coming to hand well, ran 800m in 51.4, the last 600 in 38.4, while a Savabeel and a Postponed, both trained by Lisa Latta, required 52.7 and 38.2. Cost Of Freedom and Waiana Gold were paired over 800m in 52.9, the last 600 in 38.8, and Borrack, working alone with Robert Hannam in the saddle, recorded the same times. Happy Harry did a nice 800m in 53.5, the last 600 in 38.9, while a High Chaparral filly and a Zabeel gelding, two more from the Adrian Bull stable, completed the same task in 54.2 and 39.9. Tradleia posted 54.7 and 39.6.Key Whiz did a quiet round and a half before stretching out over 1000m in 1.7.7, the last 600 in 39.6, and Just A Shout did 1000m in 1.10, the last 600 in 39.7.

Manonamission, off to Hastings for the open mile, covered 800m in 54.1, the last 600 in 40.7, while Phantom Storm and a Shinko King filly stablemate took 57.3 and 40.2. Tri Now (by Howbaddouwantit), trained Greg Lambert, and a Spartacus maiden with Robert Grant went together over 800m in 58.3, the last 600 in 40.8. Former top Australian filly Our Joan Of Arc, who worked in great style on Tuesday, was kept to 800m in 59, the last 600 in 41. She contests the r90 1200m on Saturday in her first start for new trainer Mike Breslin. Lethal Lady had trainer Lucy Darby in the saddle over 800m in 55, the last 600 in 41.4, while Cordova Bay sprinted 600m in 41.1. Jacaila and a My Halo stablemate required 41.6.

On the No 1 grass, Go Danny and Tap ’N’ Gap went evens early over 800m in 52, sprinting the last 600 in 37.8. Their stablemates Just A Whisper and Skyhawk went solidly throughout and recorded 50.8 and 38.1. Justanexcuse, who is in the r90 1200m at Hastings, had Kelly Myers aboard over 800m in 54, the last 600 in 39.3, while Black Lambo and Excess went 1000m in 1.9, the last 600 in 41. 

 

 

Tuesday August 24

Big Boy and Red Cougar took the time honours during a busy gallop session at Awapuni this morning. A majority of fast work took place on the plough (good), where improved underfoot conditions saw some very good times recorded. Big Boy and the unraced Red Cougar (by Lion Heart), who both showed up at the Waverley trials last week, were paired over a strong 800m in 49, the last 600 in 36.5, and looked right at home in the frosty weather.Big Boy won debut as a 2-year-old last January and was then unplaced at Group 3 level at Te Rapa in February. He has not raced since, but will kick off his 3-year-old season at either New Plymouth or Hastings in the coming weeks.

Their stablemates Primed And Ready and Klose were the next to gallop and were just as impressive with 800m in 49.8, the last 600 in 36.8. L'Amour and a Keeper maiden, both trained by Lisa Latta, took 51.5 and 36.8.  Eyeball and a Seasoned Star gelding, both from the Searle barn, covered 800m in 49.8, the last 600 in 37, while Liquid Goodness and a Dubawi filly stablemate went 49.9 and 37.1.Former northerner Key Whiz, who is close to racing trim, had Masa Tanaka aboard over a round of pacework before running 1000m in a nice 1.2.6, the last 600 in 37.3.Interlagos, who tackles the maiden 2200m at Awapuni tomorrow, had recent Woodville trial winner I'm Not Ticklish for a partner over 1000m in 1.3.9, the last 600 in 37.8, while Morepork and Lemon Honey ended 800m with 600 in 37.5.

Pichola and Meduna matched strides over 800m in 50.1, the last 600 in 37.2, and Manawatu runners Go Danny (r90 1400m) and Maximum Gold (mdn 2200m) completed the same task in 50.4 and 37.2. Possible race rivals Optimus and Tap 'N' Gap (r80 1200m) went together over 800m in 51, the last 600 in 37.1, and Micheals Star (r70 mile) galloped on his own in 51 and 37.4. Platinum Princess ended with 600m in 37.6. What Happened, in the r70 mile on Thursday, had Manonamission alongside over 800m in 50.8, the last 600 in 38.2, and Iamthatiam (r80 1200m) ran his last 600 in 38.7, with Le Brun taking 38.1.Relentless One (mdn 1400m) had raceday rider Mathew Ward in the saddle over 1000m in 1.4.6, the last 600 in 38.1, while Electriclite and Wotabuzz returned 1.5.6 and 38.8. Dancingondiamonds, trained by Stephen Mercer, sprinted 600m in 38.2, while Noah's Delight and Our Joan Of Arc ended with 600m in 38.6. Lethal Lady and a Coats Choice maiden ran 800m in 55.1, the last 600 in 38.

Emmylou Marie, trained by Trina Marshall, left 800m behind in 53.8, the last 600 in 39.4, while Just A Whisper and Macadamia clocked 54.5 and 39.8. A Howbaddouwantit gelding and a Drama Critic filly, both with Mike Breslin, sprinted 600m in 39.4. Black Widow, who debuts in the maiden 1200, had trainer Tracy Collis aboard when galloping with Groundsman over 1000m in 1.6.3, the last 600 in 39.7, and Edison took 1.9 and 39.7. Tip The Wink dashed 600m in 39.6. South Road (r70 mile) was timed 1200m in 1.21.7, the last 600 in 39.4, while Iriodes took 1.21.8 and 39.3. McCarvill (mdn 1400m) ended with 600m in 39.5. Cadonna did even work over 1000m in 1.10, the last 600 in 40.6, with Perfect Excuse taking 1.10.9 and 40.2. Smart Molly recorded 1.11.2 and 40.9. A Bahhare gelding and one by Scaredee Cat, both with Matthew Eales, went a quiet 600m in 42.8.

On the No 1 grass, Yelracm handled the heavy conditions well with 800m in 52.2, the last 600 in 38.7, and Black Lambo (r80 2200m) had Blonde Babe for a partner over 1000m in 1.8.1, the last 600 in 40.6.Hot Deputy worked on his own over 600m in 40.1, while Manawatu runners Wannabe Queen (r70 1200m) and Finkican (mdn f&m mile) took 42.3. Pania Rose (mdn 1200m) ran 800m in 55 and 42.1.Mission Post and Sweet'n'sour Sue, possible rivals in the maiden 1400m, were timed 1000m in 1.11.8, the last 600 in 43.7, and Henry Daniel (r80 2200m) took 1.12.4 and 42.4.

 

Thursday - August 5th
By RON GURNEY

Chandani could easily prove the form from his recent two starts all wrong on Sunday after a strong final trial at Awapuni this morning.Fast work took place against the rail on the heavy No 1 grass, on the slushy plough and on the sand.Chandani used the No 1 grass and had raceday jockey Mathew Ward in the saddle when working with stablemate Yelracm over 1000m, being timed from the 800m in 56.9, the last 600 in 42.7. Both horses looked right at home in the conditions.Chandani, who goes to Hawera on Sunday for a rating 70 2100m, won a maiden (2040m) at Wanganui  (heavy) three starts ago, then finished sixth at Manawatu (2100m, heavy), but well back at New Plymouth (1800m, slow) last time out.He has not finished winning just yet and lacks nothing in fitness, so deserves another chance to return to top form on Sunday.Hatuma ran 1000m in 1.7.4, the last 600 in 41.7, while Just A Whisper and Go Danny, who also lapped up the testing conditions, covered 800m in 59.1, the last 600 in 44.3.

On the plough, Electriclite, who will soon be seen over hurdles, ran 800m in 55.7, the last 600 in 41.4, and his stablemate South Road left 1000m behind in 1.11.5, the last 600 in 42.6.

On the sand, Lethal Lady and a Coats Choice gelding, both trained by Lucy Darby, sprinted 600m in 40.2.Howaboutnow did a quiet round and a half before sprinting home 600m in 42.4, and former northerner Key Whiz did similar work, finishing with 600m in 44.
 

Tuesday August 3

By RON GURNEY

Justanexcuse signalled his readiness for a trip to the Grand National meeting at Riccarton is week with pleasing trial at Awapuni this morning. Fast work took place on the outside of the he heavy No 1 grass and on the plough (slow), while a handful used the extreme outside of the course proper (heavy). Justanexcuse used the No 1 grass and had amateur rider Mirita-Jane Frith aboard when working alone over 800m in 50.5, the last 600 in 37.3.

The No Excuse Needed 4-year-old has not raced since finishing second to stablemate Platinum Zana in a rating 90 1200m at Trentham on Wellington Steeplechase day last month. He tackles either Saturday's r85 1000m or the r90 1400m. Last-start winner Optimus had Sunday's Egmont runner Chandani (r70 2100m) for a partner over 800m in 51.6, the last 600 in 37.9, while Aitutaki (mdn 1400m) and Finkican (mdn mile), also off to Egmont, ended with 600m in 38.4. Riccarton entrants Tick Tock Turbo (Winter Cup) and Jack's Point went together over a solid 800m in 50.9, the last 600 in 38.4. Jack's Point will run in either the r85 1000m or the r75 1200m. They promise to make their presence felt. Egmont runner Excess (r70 2100m) and Sweet'n'sour matched strides throughout 1000m in 1.6.7, the last 600 in 39.5, while Iamthatiam went alone in 1.7.6 and 40.6. Morepork and Lemon Honey sprinted 600m in 40.1.

Electriclite did solid work over 800m in 53.5, the last 600 in 40.7, and his stablemate South Road ended with 40.6. Pania Rose, in the maiden 1200m at Foxton on Thursday, covered 800m in 54, the last 600 in 41.3. Sacha, heading to Riccarton for the open 1200m, had Kelly Myers aboard over 800m in 54.7, the last 600 in 41.4, while a Zerpour and a Towkay, fillies with Lisa Latta, took 54.8 and 41.2. Mary Pepper and Foxton debutante Miss Lincoln (by Savabeel) went together over 800m in 55, the last 600 in 41.5. Miss Lincoln (mdn 3yo 1200m) was placed at the trials in June. Hatuma was timed 1000m in 1.6.8, the last 600 in 41.7, and stablemate Smart Molly went much quieter in 1.12.7 and 42.7. Foxton debutante Emmylou Marie (by O'Reilly), trained by Trina Marshall, ran 800m in 56.4, the last 600 in 42.1. She has been placed at the trials. Tap 'N' Gap (r80 1400m) and Maximum Gold were at a good clip early, but eased to cover800m in 56.1, the last 600 in 42.8. Maximum Gold is in Thursday's maiden hurdles (ballot) and the maiden 2100m. Platinum Zana, heading to Riccarton, was not after time with 800m in 56.4, the last 600 in 43, and she will run in either the open 1200m or the r90 1400m.

On the course proper, Winter Cup prospects Jowka and Propel galloped impressively together over a mile and came in form the 1200m in 1.18.2, the last 600 in 39.8. They should figure prominently in the $100,000 feature. Foremost (r75 mile) and Clarence, also off to Riccarton, did similar work over a mile and clocked 1.22.9 for 1200m, the last 600 in 41.7. Clarence will contest either the Sydenham Hurdles or the r75 mile. Koral Steeplechase rivals Yourtheman and Counter Punch were given the same task and they came in from the 1200m in 1.24, the last 600 in 41.8.

On the plough, Foxton runner Between Friends (r70 mile) ran an eye-catching trial over 1000m in 1.3.1, the last 600 in 36.9. She worked just impressively the previous Tuesday with Levin winner Superturf. Macadamia and a Seasoned Star gelding stablemate covered 800m in 51.6, the last 600 in 37.9, and Tradleia, working alone, took 52 and 37.4. O'Connor, in the maiden hurdles at Foxton, was timed 1000m in 1.6, the last 600 in 38.6. Gold Card and Son Of Grace were paired over 800m in 53.1, the last 600 in 39, and former northerner Key Whiz (by Faltaat) took 53.1 and 39.3. Relentless One required 54.6 and 39.5. Tickles had Rosie Myers in the saddle over 800m in 54, the last 600 in 40.2, while a Storming Home gelding and one by Gold Centre, both with Grant Searle, sprinted 600m in 40.8. Howaboutnow left 1000m behind in 1.7.8, the last 600 in 40.4, and Finito, who tackles Thursday's restricted open steeplechase at Foxton, took 1.8 and 40.6. Liquid Goodness and a Howbaddouwantit gelding stablemate sprinted 600m in 42.8.

Thursday July 29

By RON GURNEY
 

Trainer Gary Vile can look forward to a rewarding day at Otaki tomorrow judging by the way some of his horses worked at Awapuni this morning. Ryder Stakes candidate Waiana Gold, Keepin It Up and Repetoire all the caught eye in impressive trials, with gallops taking place against the rail on the heavy No 1 grass and on the plough (slow). Waiana Gold used the No 1 grass and had Our Centrefold for a partner over 800m in 52.2, the last 600 in 37.7. Waiana Gold faces a big task in the Ryder Stakes, but her form suggests she could get some of the money.

A Gold Mine filly in the Oulaghan stable drew attention to her immediate prospects when running 800m in 51.5, the last 600 in 38.6. She has been making steady progress. Just A Whisper, who goes to Te Rapa for the open 1400m tomorrow, and Go Danny, who stays closer to home for the r90 1400m at Otaki, worked together over 800m in 52.6, the last 600 in 38.9. Klose, a Thorn Park gelding debuting in the maiden 1200m at Otaki, continued his solid preparation for the event by recording 52.1 for 800m, the last 600 in 39.1. Wotabuzz (r70 2100m) ended with 600m in 39.5. Iamthatiam (r80 1200m) had trainer Tony Kaye aboard over 800m in 53.4, the last 600 in 40.3, and she is quite capable of bouncing back to victory after a last-start eighth at Trentham when racing in a higher grade. Surf Patrol, off to Te Rapa for the 3-year-old 1400m, had Rosie Myers in the saddle over 800m in 53.8, the last 600 in 40.2, and she will be a big chance with northern apprentice Jenny Whiteside claiming 4kg.

Ustibecasual, in at Otaki (r80 1200m), cruised over 800m in 54.1, the last 600 in 40.1, while Cadonna (r70 2100m) and Hatuma went together over 1000m in 1.5.7, the last 600 in 40.1 as well. A Don Eduardo filly in the Oulaghan stable left 800m behind in 54.7, the last 600 in 41.2, and Tony Bambry's Nyazi took 55.4 and 41.1. Jowka cut out 1200m in 1.22.9, the last 600 in 41.2. Tip The Wink sprinted 600m in 41.6, while L'Amour and a Savabeel filly stablemate clocked 42.2. South Road worked alone over 1000m in 1.10, the last 600 in 42.3. His stablemates Awesome and Foremost required 1.15.5 and 42.1. Smart Molly was not after time over 800m in 57.9, the last 600 in 42.4, and My Astron, who has been with Tony Bambry temporarily, had Kane Smith aboard over an easy 800m in 56.7 and 43.2. He resumes in the restricted open 1200m at Otaki.

On the plough, Otaki runners Keepin It Up (mdn 1200m) and Repetoire (r70 3yo 1200m) were paired over a nice 800m in 51.9, the last 600 in 37.9. Keepin It Up is resuming, while Repetoire is a last-start winner (1200m) at Awapuni. Superturf (r70 1400m) and Relentless One matched strides throughout 1000m in 1.4.8, the last 600 in 38.4, and Notorious (mdn mile) took 1.7.2 and 38.2. Howaboutnow covered 800m in 52.2, the last 600 in 39.3. Golander (r80 mile), who could run a big race fresh, was sent an even 1000m in 1.5, the last 600 in 39.8, while Le Brun and a Lowell gelding went together in 1.7.2 and 39.7.

Tuesday July 27
By RON GURNEY

Go Danny and Yelracm starred on a busy gallop morning at Awapuni today. A majority of fast work took place on the outside of the course proper (slow-heavy), where Go Danny and Yelracm were paired over 800m in 49.7, the last 600 in 36.7. It was good work as they were among the last few to gallop. Go Danny has not raced since finishing seventh in the Whyte Handicap (1600m) at Trentham, while Yelracm finished last over 1200m at Tauranga a month ago. He has freshened nicely.

Primed And Ready and a Thorn Park gelding stablemate were timed 800m in 51.7, the last 600 in 37.9, while Miss Marauder and a Gold Centre stablemate took 51.8 and 37.5. Big Boy and Red Cougar went together over 800m in 50.9, the last 600 in 38, while Optimus, in at Wanganui on Thursday (r70 1200m) and last Thursday's Foxton winner Tap 'N' Gap required 51.7 and 38.6. Superturf and Between Friends matched strides throughout 800m in 51.8, the last 600 in 38.3, which was good work considering they were the last to use the course proper. O'Connor and an Istidaad maiden sprinted 600m in 38.5. Wanganui maiden entrant Mission Post and stablemate Zennista came in from the 800m in 52.2, the last 600 in 38.7, and a Reset Colt and a Gold Centre gelding, both trained by Grant Searle, sprinted 600m in 38.1.

Top Waipukurau sprinter My Astron had Kane Smith aboard over 1000m, coming the final 800m in 52.4, the last 600 in 39.3. He has been on Tony Bambry's water treadmill since winning at the Woodville trials last week. What Happened, in at Wanganui (r70 mile) and a Handsome Ransom maiden left 800m behind in 52.5, the last 600 in 39.2, while Noah's Delight and Meduna completed the same task in 52.6 and 39.3.

Yourhavinmeon and Waitaha Toa ended with 600m in 39.6 and they could be seen in different jumping roles at Wanganui on Thursday, with Yourhavinmeon nominated for the maiden hurdles and Waitaha Toa in the maiden steeples. O'Reilly's Lass and a Towkay gelding stablemate sprinted 600m in 39.4, and unnamed horses by Savabeel and Pins from the Latta barn took 39.6. A Drama Critic filly and one by Dubawi, both with Mike Breslin, did 800m in 55.9 and 39.2.

Wotabuzz, preparing for a jumping career, galloped 1200m 1.19.2, the last 600 in 39.9. He resumes in the r70 mile on Thursday. Kalgoorlie Gold (maiden hurdles) did nice work over 800m in 54, the last 600 in 40.9. Hot Deputy (r80 2040m) worked on his own over 800m in 54.9, the last 600 in 40.5, while Mark Oulaghan-trained stablemates Rising Tide, both in Thursday's rating 70 mile, took 55 and 40.7.

Mary Pepper and a Keeper maiden covered 800m in 56.8, the last 600 in 40.1, and Iriodes came to the finish of 1200m in 1.19.3, the last 600 in 40.1. South Road and Wellington Steeples winner Brushman went 1200m in 1.22.3 and 41.7. Liquid Goodness and Morepork stayed together throughout their 600m dash in 41.1, and stablemate Lemon Honey required 41.2. Iamthatiam went an easy 800m in 55.2, the last 600 in 41. Wanganui maiden runner Fairgame had trainer Tracy Collis aboard over 800m in 55.9, the last 600 in 41.5, while a Gold Mine filly and a Don Eduardo filly, both with Mark Oulaghan, took 55.9 and 42. Yourtheman worked over 1200m in 1.25.5 and he came his final 800m in 56.5, the last 600 in 42.2, and Wanganui maiden hurdles entrant Henry Daniel finished with 56.5 and 42.7. Counter Punch (r80 2040m) and Par Avion (mdn hurdles) went together over 1200m in 1.22.7, the last 600 in 42.3, and Manonamission did little more than three-quarter pace over 800 metres.

On the plough, Our Joan Of Arc sprinted 600m in 38.5, and Golander caught the eye with 1000m in 1.3, the last 600 in 39. Eyeball and a Seasoned Star gelding stablemate registered 51.8 for 800m, the last 600 in 39.1. Wanganui maiden runners Atonement (1200m) and Maximum Gold (2040m) went together over 800m in 53.2, the last 600 in 39.7, and Hatuma galloped 1000m in 1.7.2 and 40.7. Former northerner Come To Mumma, who has not raced for over a year, went a quiet 800m in 57.4, the last 600 in 41.4. She is with Jeff Lynds. Wanganui runners Del Sarto (r70 mile) and Daltoray (mdn hurdles) were paired in a jumping school over two rounds of the hurdle fences in the centre of the course.

Tuesday July 20
By RON GURNEY

Grant Searle-trained stablemates Tigerman, Tap 'N' Gap, Just A Whisper and Jungle Recipe all worked in terrific fashion at Awapuni this morning. Fast work took place on the middle of the heavy No 1 grass and on the plough (slow). Tigerman and Tap 'N' Gap used the grass and, despite being among the first group to use this training track, were impressive cutting out 800m in 50.4, the last 600 in 37.8. They are both entered for the rating 80 1200m at Foxton on Thursday.

Finkican, a big chance in the maiden mile, and Wannabe Queen were paired over 800m in 51.2, the last 600 in 37.8, while Jack's Point and Santa Fe ended their work with 600m in 37.3. Excess, off to Foxton for the r70 2100m, and an in-form Black Lambo went together over a solid 1000m in 1.3.8, the last 600 in 38.7, while Red Cougar and Big Boy finished with 600m in 38.9. Tickles and a Thorn Park gelding matched strides over 800m in 50.2, the last 600 in 38, and their stablemates Noah's Delight and former Australian galloper Our Joan Of Arc took 50.8 and 39.4. Foxton maiden entrant Sweet'n'sour Sue and a Nowell gelding ran 800m in 51.4, the last 600 in 39.7, while Surf Patrol and Foxton runner Pichola (r70 1400m) required 51.8 and 39.4. Primed And Ready had stablemate Meduna for a partner over 800m in 52.6, the last 600 in 39.2, with O'Reilly Lass and a Towkay gelding, both with Grant Searle, taking 53.4 and 39.1.

Rumour Has It Now, who still holds a nomination for the Winter Cup at Riccarton, had trainer Tracy Collis aboard over 1000m in 1.8.1, the last 600 in 39.2, and a Gold Mine filly in the Oulaghan stable ended with 600m in 39.8. South Road was sent 800m in 54.1, the last 600 in 40.9, and McCarvill, in the maiden 1200m at Foxton, finished with 600m in 40.1. A Dubawi filly and Drama Critic filly, both with Mike Breslin, sprinted 600m in 40.2 . Top Of The Stretch, racing at Foxton, covered 1000m in a quiet 1.11, the last 600 in 41.8, while Smart Molly took 1.10.4 and 41.9. Wotabuzz worked over 1400m, being timed 1200m in 1.20.4, the last 600 in 41. Fairgame, trained by Tracy Collis, was not after time with 800m in 56, the last 600 in 42.8, while a Scaredee Cat gelding and a Bahhare gelding, both trained by Matthew Eales, took 56.2 and 42.7. Jowka and Par Avion did strong work in separate gallops without being fully extended, and Manonamission ended his work with 600m in 43.8.

On the plough, Just A Whisper, who tackles the $100,000 Opunake Cup at New Plymouth on Saturday, galloped with Jungle Recipe over 1000m, being timed the final 800m in 51.5, the last 600 in 38.6.Yelracm and Eye Ball warmed into their work from the 800m, which took 54, coming home the last 600 in 38.7. Le Brun ended with 600m in 38.8. Gold Card and Relentless One required 53.2 for 800m, the last 600 in 39.3, and Nathan's Run, in the maiden juvenile at Foxton, did a quiet round and a half before sprinting home 600m in 41.8. O'Connor and an Istidaad gelding schooled together over two rounds of the hurdle fences in the centre of the course as did Maximum Gold on his own. Victory Morgan, in at Foxton (r70 2100m), and Sahara Sunset, both trained by Shane Brown were over from Woodville to school two rounds of the steeple fences in the centre as did The Rooster on his own. Foxton runner Interlagos (mdn 2200m) went with Micheals Star over two rounds of the steeple fences as well.

 

Thursday July 15
By RON  GURNEY

Iamthatiam could not have been more impressive in training at Awapuni this morning as she prepares to step up a grade or two at Trentham on Saturday.  Fast work was held on the outside of the heavy No 1 grass and on the plough (good), but fog prevented the timing of several gallops.  Iamthatiam, who has won her last two in succession, used the grass and had trainer Tony Kaye in the saddle over 800m in 49.2, the last 600 in 37.9. She tackles the r90 1200m this week.

Her stablemate Micheals Star ended his work with 600m in 38.2, and Trentham runner Aitutaki (special conditions 1400m) recorded 39.8. A Zerpour maiden and one by Towkay, both with Lisa Latta, sprinted 600m in 39.3.  Parliamentary Handicap entrant Waitaha Toa and Tick Tock Turbo (Whyte Hp) were paired over 1000m in 1.7.2, the last 600 in 39.2, and their stablemate Sacha (Whyte Hp) ended with 40.2. The timing of her gallop was hindered by fog.  Drift (special conditions 1400m) had stable apprentice Rosie Myers aboard over 800m in 54.3, the last 600 in 40.9, while Excess and What Happened ended with 600m in 40 even.

Electronic Hoss, who should start a warm favourite in the maiden steeples on Saturday, had Wellington Steeples runner Brushman for company over 1400 metres, being timed the final 1000m in 1.9.3, the last 600 in 41.6.

On the plough, Go Danny (Whyte Hp) and Just A Whisper went together over 800m in 51.1, the last 600 in 38.8, while Relentless One worked on his own in 51.5 and 38.7, with Tickles taking 51.1 and 39.2.

Tigerman and Atonement matched strides throughout 800m in 52, the last 600 in 39.2, while their stablemates Keep The Recipe and Chandani went 52.5 and 39.6. Cadonna, in Saturday's r80 mile, ran 1000m in 1.5.5, the last 600 in 39.7.  Groundsman and Howaboutnow were timed 800m in 52.6, the last 600 in 39, and Wellington Steeples chance Yourtheman covered 1000m in 1.7.4, the last 600 in 39.9. O'Reilly Lass and a Towkay gelding, both with Grant Searle, sprinted 600m in 40.  Clarence left 800m behind in 54.9, the last 600 in 41.1, and Macadamia sprinted 600m in 41, while Watson Lagoon ran 800m in 55.4, the last 600 in 42.5. A Don Eduardo filly from the Oulaghan stable took 56.2 and 42.2.  Kalgoorlie Gold, in Saturday's maiden hurdles, had Mathew Gillies aboard and he covered 1000m in 1.9.9, the last 600 in 42.9.

 AWAPUNI TRACKWORK - Tuesday July 6
By RON GURNEY

Wannabe Queen, a longshot winner at Wanganui last start, showed she has trained on the right way with a bold semi-final trial at Awapuni this morning. Fast work took place on the outside of the heavy No 1 grass and on the plough (slow). Wannabe Queen used the grass and had stable rider Masa Tanaka aboard over 1000m in 1.9, sprinting home the last 600 in 36.7. She could put back-to-back wins together at her home track this Saturday in the 3-year-old 1400m.

Just A Whisper and Go Danny, who both could race at the Waipa meeting on Saturday, worked reverse way over 800 metres, but could not be timed in poor light. Their condition cannot be faulted. Tigerman and Atonement, two more from the Searle barn, were paired over a solid 800m in 49.7, the last 600 in 37.1, and they were the only two to break 50 seconds over that distance on the grass.Carvill and a Magic Ring maiden, both trained by Peter Hurdle, sprinted 600m in 37.8, while Iamthatiam (r70 1200m) had trainer Tony Kaye in the saddle over 1000m, being timed the final 800m in 50.2, the last 600 in 38.3. Lizzie's Girl (mdn 1200m) took 50.5 and 38. Marton runners Chandani (r70 2100m) and Maximum Gold (mdn mile) matched strides throughout 1000m in 1.6.3, the last 600 in 38.6, while Jack's Point (3yo 1400m) and Waitaha Toa (hurdles) required 1.6.9 and 38.3.

Surf Patrol (3yo 1400m) and Drift clocked 1.7.1 and 38.8. Propel (r90 1400m) was sent 1000m in 1.7.5, the last 600 in 39.4, while his stablemates Electriclite (r80 mile) and Rising Tide (mdn mile) went together in 1.6.8 and 40.5. A Gold Mine filly and one by Danske, both from the same barn, ran 800m in 54.1, the last 600 in 40.9. A Don Eduardo and a High Chaparral from the Oulaghan stable ran 800m in 54.3, the last 600 in 40.4, while Nyazi and Ard Ri, who worked late in the session, completed the same task in 55 and 40.9.Cadonna (r80 mile) had Watson Lagoon for a partner over 1000m in 1.7, the last 600 in 40.5, and Rumour Has It Now (r80 mile) had trainer Tracy Collis aboard when running 1.9.4 and 40.4. Micheals Star (r70 2100m) did 1200m in 1.21.8, the last 600 in 40.1. Noah's Delight and Meduna sprinted 600m in 41.9, as did a Drama Critic filly and a Lion Heart filly together from the same stable. Former Australian 2-year-old Our Joan Of Arc, now with Mike Breslin, went 41.6. She is rising four.

Kalgoorlie Gold (r70 2100m) and Henry Daniel covered 1000m in 1.8.2, the last 600 in 41.1, while Top Of The Stretch (mdn mile) and stablemate Fairgame (by Sandtrap) covered 1000m in 1.9.6, the last 600 in 41.3. Fairgame debuts in the maiden 1200m on Saturday.Roodyvoo (r70 2100m) had trainer Ashley Meadows aboard over a quiet 1000m in 1.11.3, the last 600 in 41.3, while Zennista (2yo), who ran an eye-catching second to Queen Of The Castle on debut at Otaki, and a Handsome Ransom youngster did 800m in 56.2 and 42.5. Counter Punch did good work over 1000m in 1.12.5, the last 600 in 42.4, and his stablemate Par Avion ran two solid rounds, finishing with 800m in 56.7 and 44.On the plough, Big Boy and a Dubawi filly stablemate sprinted 600m in 40.9, and Primed And Ready from the same barn took 43.3. Perfect Excuse (hurdles) and Foxton visitor Kilrenny (r70 2100m) jumped two rounds of the hurdle fences in the centre of the course.

AWAPUNI TRACKWORK - Thursday July 1
By RON GURNEY
 

Hot Deputy hinted at a major improvement in form with his solid gallop at Awapuni this morning. The majority of fast work took place on the middle of the heavy No 1 grass, where Hot Deputy worked alone with a light weight up, covering 800m in 50.5, the last 600 in 38.7. He resumed at Awapuni recently, much in need of the run, but looks capable of paying a dividend in the r90 mile at Hastings, where he scored his maiden win over that distance two years ago on a testing winter track. The blinkers come off.

A Thorn Park gelding in the Breslin stable did well to run 800m in 51.1, the last 600 in 38.3, while Tigerman and Atonement took 52 and 38.5. O'Reilly Lass and a Reset colt, both with Grant Searle, sprinted 600m in 38.7. Promising hurdler Kalgoorlie Gold had Mathew Gillies aboard over a strong 1000m in 1.6.3, the last 600 in 38.5, and last-start maiden winner Iamthatiam recorded 1.6.6 and 39.8. Chandani, another to clear maidens last start, came to the end of 800m in 51.8, the last 600 in 39, while his stablemates Just A Whisper and Go Danny went together in 52 and 39.1. Just A Whisper goes to Hawke's Bay for the open 1200m, seeking three wins in a row.Carvill and a Magic Ring gelding, both with Peter Hurdle, matched strides over 800m in 54.1, the last 600 in 39.2, while Madam Butterfly, in the open 1200m at Hawke's Bay, had Lizzie's Girl for company over 800m in 52.8, the last 600 in 40.

Pichola (r70 1400m) worked alone over 800m in 52.9, the last 600 in 40.2, while I'm Not Ticklish and a Nowell 3-year-old gelding took 53 and 40.8. Drift required 53.8 and 40.6. Last week's impressive Wanganui hurdle winner Clarence covered his final 800m in 54.8, the last 600 in 41.7, and he is unlikely to escape the ballot for Saturday's Hawke's Bay Hurdles. A Gold Mine filly stablemate went 54.7 and 41.9. De Gama, balloted out of the maiden 2000m on Saturday, ran 1000m in 1.8.9, the last 600 in 41.7, while last-start winner Black Lambo (r80 2500m) went with Excess over the same distance in 1.9.5 and 41.1.

Watson Lagoon ended with 600m in 41.3, while a 2-year-old by Tale of The Cat and one by O'Reilly, both with Trina Marshall, ran 800m in 56.8, the last 600 in 42.4. Electriclite went 1000m in 1.11.8, the last 600 in 42.8. Par Avion, in Saturday's maiden hurdles, ended his work with 600m in 43.2, and Hawke's Bay Steeples runner Finito came in from the 1000m in 1.12.1, the last 600 in 44.3. Yourhavinmeon (r90 mile) was not after time over 800m, the last 600 in 45.6.On the outside of the course proper, Hawke's Bay Steeples prospect Yourtheman galloped with stablemate Electronic Hoss (mdn steeples) over a mile, being timed from the 1200m in 1.22.9. They completed the final 800m in 55.3, the last 600 in 41.6.

Tuesday June 29
By RON GURNEY
 

Matthew Eales-trained maidens Aitutaki and Finkican were impressive trialists at Awapuni this morning. The majority of fast work took place against the rail on the heavy No 1 grass, where Aitutaki and Finkican were paired over a solid 800m in 51.1, the last 600 in 38.2, which was great work in preparation for the Egmont meeting on Friday.A well-backed Aitutaki resumed at Awapuni earlier this month, but finished last. A vet report revealed the horse had poor post-race recovery, but the mare looks ready to put that behind her. Finkican is an improver as well.

Jungle Recipe (r70 1200m) had stable apprentice Mathew Ward in the saddle when running 800m in 53.6, the last 600 in 38.9, while Saturday's Hawke's Bay entrants Ping Pong (r70 1400m) and Santa Fe (open 1200m) went together in 51.9 and 39.4. Tai Chi Queen, who goes to Hawke's Bay for the open 1200m as well, had stablemate Pichola (r70 1400m) for a partner over a nice 800m in 53, the last 600 in 39.6. Last-start winners Yourhavinmeon (r90 mile) and Hawke's Bay Hurdles chance Waitaha Toa matched strides over 800m in 53.2, the last 600 in 39.8. Waitaha Toa could not have been more impressive winning over hurdles at Wanganui last week.

Chandani, another last-start Wanganui winner, had Keep The Recipe alongside over the same distance in 53.2 and 39.9. Keep The Recipe is in the maiden 2000m at Hawke's Bay and overdue a winning turn.In-form Just A Whisper (open 1200m) and Egmont runner Optimus (r70 1200m) left 800m behind in 53.6, the last 600 in 39.8, and Micheals Star, who continues to work solidly, ran 1000m in 1.6, the last 600 in 39.6. Wotabuzz, who is now with Mark Oulaghan, ran 1200m in 1.22.5, the last 600 in 39.7, and he is preparing for a jumping career. Sweet'n'Sour Sue, in at Egmont (mdn f&m 1200m) and a Handsome Ransom youngster went 1000m in 1.9.5, the last 600 in 40.8. Hawke's Bay runners Black Lambo (r80 2500m) and Mission Post (mdn 1400m) covered 1000m in 1.9.5, the last 600 in 41.7, while Authentic Desire (r70 1400m) and Egmont maiden entrant Pania Rose did 800m in 55.9 and 41.1. Lizzie's Girl clocked 55.9 and 42.7. Hawke's Bay Hurdles prospect Clarence, another impressive winner over hurdles at Wanganui, ran 1000m in 1.11.6, the last 600 in 42.5, and Electronic Hoss, who finished second over hurdles the same day, took 1.12.3 and 42.7. He tackles the maiden steeples at Hawke's Bay. Par Avion (mdn hurdles) was sent 1000m in 1.12.8, the last 600 in 43.3, and Counter Punch was timed from the 800m in 58.8, the last 600 in 43.7.On the sand, Miss Blackjack (mdn 2000m) had Chris Carmine aboard over 1000m in 1.10.9, the last 600 in 42.9.

Electriclite, now with Mark Oulaghan, did two rounds of the steeple fences in the centre of the course then came out and joined Hawke's Bay Steeple entrant Finito to jump the three fences in the Awapuni country. Finito went on to run 1000m on the outside of the course proper, the last 600 in 42.2.

Thursday June 24
By RON GURNEY

The Twist, among early nominations for the Winter Cup at the beginning of August, tuned up for Otaki on Sunday with a solid gallop at Awapuni this morning. The majority of fast work took place on the middle of the heavy No 1 grass, where The Twist had stablemate Barefoot for a partner over 1000m in 1.2.8, the last 600 in 36.9. The Twist tackles the open 1400m on Sunday.

Jungle Recipe skipped over the same distance on his own in 1.3, the last 600 in 37.3, while Tradleia (r70 1400m) went with a Thorn Park gelding stablemate over a tidy 800m in 49.2, the last 600 in 37.4. Micheals Star covered 800m in 50.2, the last 600 in 38.3, while a Don Eduardo gelding and a Le Bec Fin filly, both trained by Adrian Bull, went together and clocked 50.7 and 38.3. Keep The Recipe and Optimus worked strongly throughout 800m in 51.3, the last 600 in 38.7, with Top Of The Stretch, in Sunday's maiden mile, and Sweet'n'Sour Sue running 1000m in 1.6.3, the last 600 in 39.4.Nobillyborn (r70 2100m) and Butch James were timed from the 1000m in 1.8.5, the last 600 in 39.7, and Electriclite, now with Mark Oulaghan, went alone over the distance in 1.9.6 and 40.4. Top mare Sacha, who is heading north for the weight-for-age Tauranga Classic on Saturday, worked over 800m in 54.3, the last 600 in 40.7, and she should credit herself well. Jack's Point, in the 3-year-old 1400m at Tauranga, had Otaki entrant Tick Tock Turbo (open 1400m) alongside over 800m in 56, the last 600 in 42.1. Tick Tock Turbo is another entered for the Winter Cup. His stablemate Cordova Bay, who is seeking a hat-trick of wins in the r80 1400m at Tauranga, was kept to 800m in 59.3, the last 600 in 45.1, while Mission Post and a Towkay filly stablemate took 59.5 and 45.2.

Kiwifruit Cup candidate Go Danny worked with Just A Whisper the reverse way before dawn, but could not be timed. Go Danny handles right-handed tracks well. He finished fifth in the Counties Cup and was placed at Tauranga as a 3-year-old.On the plough, Howaboutnow had trainer Janine Vandenberg aboard over 800m in 51.2, the last 600 in 38.7. Maximum Gold, in the maiden mile at Otaki on Sunday, and Interlagos schooled over two rounds of the hurdle fences in the centre, while Wotabuzz, now with Mark Oulaghan, jumped six of the steeples fences.