Rock ’n’ Pop prepared for the Darci Brahma Stakes at Te Rapa on Saturday with pleasing work at Matamata this morning.

 

The New Zealand 2000 Guineas winner had raceday rider Matt Cameron in the saddle when he and stablemate Raziyya Of Sydney (Brett) worked over 2000m on a good plough, gathering momentum to run their last 1200m in 1:15.5, with the final 1000m in 1:01.7 and 600m in 36.1

 

Rock ’n’ Pop finished the gallop comfortably, leading Cameron to describe the work as even better than his main gallop before his last start Karaka 3YO Mile win. He will be an interesting runner when he continues his New Zealand Derby preparation in Saturday’s weight-for-age feature. It was sound work also by Raziyya Of Sydney, who is being aimed at the Sir Tristram Fillies’ Classic on the weekend.

 

Race rivals Quintessential and Chicharita also advanced their claims for the three-year-old feature with good work. Desert Gold Stakes winner Quintessential (Russell) was never at top over 1200m in 1:17.8, 1000m in 1:03.3 and 600m in 37.3. Chicharita (O Richardson), who upset the favourites when winning the Royal Stakes on New Year’s Day, covered her 1200m in 1:16.7 and 600m in 36.5. A decision whether she runs in the Sir Tristram Fillies’ Classic or over 1600 metres on Saturday will be made after discussions between trainers Mike Moroney and Andrew Clarken.

 

Cat Woman (Russell) caught the eye in her preparation for Te Rapa, cutting out 1200m in 1:14.1, 1000m in 59.5 and 600m in 35.2, while Fly Silca Fly (O Richardson) drew attention to her prospects at New Plymouth on Friday when cutting out the same distance in 1:17.4, 1:01.8 and 35.1.

 

Te Rapa candidates Beauty Supremo (Dowling) and Astrogal (Shirahama) covered 1200m in 1:19.1, picking up the tempo for a final 1000m in 1:01.5 and 600m in 36.5. Over the same distance Power Playa (Grylls) put plenty of dash into recording 1:19.2, 1:04.2 and 36.3, while Suaza (Verry) took 1:17.5, 1:02.8 and 36.8, Gunsmoke (Kek) 1:14.6, 1:01.4 and 36.7, Lozada (P McKay) 1:16.9, 1:02.7 and 37.3, and Yourein (Verry) 1:15.4, 1:01.4 and 36.3.

 

Baby Guinness (Grylls) prepared for the Waikato Draught Sprint when well held over 1200m in 1:19.5, 1000m in 1:04.3 and 600m in 37.6. Mz Sinatra (Kasim) and Cloudy Bay (C Ormsby), runners at Pukekohe on Sunday, strode over 1200m in 1:21.2, 1:06.6 and 38.3.

 

Top Spot (Tanaka) was well contained over 1200m in 1:26.2 and 600m in 43.8, while stablemate Single Minded (Grylls) followed in 1:25.4 and 43.4. The Graham Richardson-trained pair will run next in the Avondale Cup at Ellerslie on Saturday week. Their stablemate Green Supreme has been sent for a short spell.

 

On the course proper, which was good 18m out, the Paul Shailer-trained Delirium (R Jones) turned in smart trial for New Plymouth on Friday when leading Killa Question (Lawson) to the end of 800m in 51.2 and 600m in 36.7. Flying Sound (Grylls), another heading to New Plymouth, was partnered by an Excites gelding (R Jones) over 1000m in 1:06.5 and 600m in 37.6.

 

On the all-weather track Gallant (Blair) worked strongly over 1200m in 1:17.6, 1000m in 1:03.3 and 600m in 36.7. Red Unicorn (Leveque) ran the same trip in 1:21.2, 1:06.6 and 38, while Bragging Rights (Grylls) took 1:04.5 for 1000m and 36.2 for the final 600m.

 

Other gallops: 1200m plough: Upstream Lad (Kasim) 1:22.3, 39.4; Sovereign Rose (Edmeads) 1:16.8, 36.8; Medici (Dowling) 1:28.2, 40.5; Corporal Lance (O’Sullivan) 1:26.3, 42.8; I’mabrunette (H McQuade) 1:18.9, 39.2; Zelus (Cameron) and Exabelle (Brett) 1:19.5, 37.8; Kahurangi (Sliz) 1:19.3, 38.2.

 

1000m plough: Sadist (Gillies) 1:04.5, 37.6; Choice Bro (Stack) 1:05.5, 35.7; Abagale (Grylls) and Hurricane Fashion (Roff) 1:04.6, 37; Ten Bells (Stack) 1:04.7, 36.2; Nicole Amy (Russell) 1:08.8, 37.5; Elway (Dowling) and La Saigon (Shirahama) 1:04, 38.5; Have No Mercy (Stack) 1:02.8, 37; Lovethelimelight (Russell) 1:09.2, 39.8. 

Ocean Park wasn’t asked for a lot in training at Matamata this morning but was nonetheless impressive as he prepared for Saturday’s H S Dyke Waikato Guineas.

 

With raceday rider Chad Ormsby in the saddle, Ocean Park worked on the all-weather track with his maiden stablemate Dashing Thunder (Hercock), cantering quietly through their first round then lifting the tempo to run in from the 800m in 48.6 and cutting out the final 600m in a smart 35.6.

 

Ocean Park, who has thrived since his impressive Wellington Stakes win, is already the $3 favourite for the New Zealand Derby and will come in for further attention when he steps up to a middle-distance at Te Rapa on the weekend. Dashing Thunder, a Show A Heart three-year-old in the Hennessy stable, has been placed in his only two starts and won’t be in maiden grade for much longer.

 

St Mark (Leveque), a rival for Ocean Park in the Waikato Guineas, worked on the plough with fellow Te Rapa candidate Yourein (Verry), cutting out 1200m in 1:17.8, 1000m in 1:02.6 and the last 600m in 35.8. Te Rapa open stayers’ runner Don Domingo (Sapsworth) got through his work over 1200m in 1:14.9, 1000m in 1:01 and 600m in 35.9.

 

Race rival Better Together (Verry) was paired with Suaza (Leveque) over the same distance in 1:17.3, 1:02.5 and 36, while Minqar Qaim (Cameron), another in the same race, and Paeroa Friday starter Karaka Vintage (Brett) clocked 1:18.4, 1:02.4 and 35.5.

 

Te Rapa form runner Sequin (Coleman) and Paeroa entry Jubilate (Tanaka) wasted no time over 1000m in 1:00.2 and 600m in 35.4. Cracker (Coleman) ran the same trip in 1:03.2 and 35.5, Lucky Aura (Verry) returned 1:03.4 and 37, and Queen Boudicca (Coleman) took 1:05.3, picking up The Raconteur (S Collett) for a final 600m in 36.6. Queen Boudicca, who looks very bright, runs at Te Rapa on the weekend.

 

Gunsmoke (Kek) and Precious Time (Edmeads) covered 1200m in 1:15.2, picking up speed over the last 1000m in 1:00.5 and 600m in 35.2. Over the same ground Providores (Russell) and Cat Woman (Stack) returned 1:19.3, 1:03.4 and 36. Miss Sharapova (Blair) was keen through the middle stages of her work over 1200m in 1:15.7, with the last 1000m in 1:01.1 and 600m in 37.

 

Gain For Fame (Coleman) prepared for the juvenile event at Te Rapa with a sharp 800m with Boomstix (K Jones) in 49.4 and 600m in 35.5.

 

On the course proper, which was good 18m out, Breaking Dawn (Grylls) caught the eye when shading Delirium (R Jones) at the end of 800m in 49.2 and 600m in 36.4. Breaking Dawn, a Gold Mine gelding in the Paul Shailer team, looked the part in a recent trial win and makes his debut in the two-year-old event at Te Rapa.

 

Stablemate Guess What (Lawson) was not after time as he prepared for the Waikato Guineas over 1200m in 1:28.2, 1000m in 1:12.4 and 600m in 43.2. Last start Royal Stakes runner-up Our Famous Eve (Swann) looked on target for next week’s Sir Tristram Fillies’ Classic when she led Wisecrack (Blair) to the finish of 1200m in 1:16.3, 1000m in 1:02.6 and 600m in 37.4.

 

Other gallops: 1200m plough: Calcutta (Yeung) 1:21.2, 37.2; Dadzadreamer (Tanaka) 1:19.3, 37.5; Just La Don (M Brosnan) 1:21.7, 38.2; Mercury Mistress (Dowling) and Astrogal (Lammas) 1:18.5, 37; She’s Invincible (Yeung) 1:20.8, 38.

 

1000m plough: Post Excellence (O Richardson) 1:07.4, 37.9, Little Chief (M Brosnan) 1:03.4, 37.2.

Green Supreme looked a worthy favourite for Saturday’s Pacific Jewellers Wellington Cup when he galloped impressively at Matamata this morning.

 

With raceday rider James McDonald up, Green Supreme worked solo on a good plough, setting off from the 2000-metre mark and timed over his last 1200 in 1:20.2. He ran the last 1000m in 1:05.4 and the final 600m in 37.6. Others went faster during the session but there was still a lot to like about the work by Green Supreme, who looks particularly fit and well.

 

Graham Richardson’s two other Wellington Cup prospects, Single Minded (Grylls) and Top Spot (Tanaka), worked soundly together over ground, cutting out their last 1200m in 1:17.9, 1000m in 1:04.2 and 600m in 37.6. John Sargent wasn’t satisfied with the work turned in by his Cup entry Better Together (Russell) and has decided to reserve her for next month’s Avondale Cup. She worked with Savarhys (Stack) over 1200m in 1:16.2, 1000m in 1:02.5 and 600 in 36.1. Savarhys runs in the R65 2300m at Trentham.

 

Sargent was on the other hands very happy with the work turned in by his Harcourts Thorndon Mile pair Sadist (Stack) and Banchee (Russell), who had pace on from the start of 1200m in 1:16.7, rounding it off with 1000m in 1:02 and 600m in a smart 35.3. Both are in very good order.

 

Warhorse (Brett) and Rock ’n’ Pop (Cameron) prepared for Sunday’s Karaka Million twilight meeting with an eye-catching gallop over 1200m 1:16.8, 1000m in 1:02.1 and 600m in 36. Warhorse has trained on well to be a leading fancy for the Karaka Million, while Rock ’n’ Pop will be an interesting runner in the Karaka 3YO Mile. Green Wings (McDonald), who will be chasing a hat-trick in the Karaka Million, reeled off 1000m in 1:03.1, the last 600m in 36.4.

 

Karaka Vintage (Kek) turned in a good trial for Rotorua on Saturday when he and Northern General (Edmeades) left 1000m behind in 1:02.7 and 600m in 35.4, while La Vitesse (Mullineaux) and Sometime Later (Weatherley) clocked 1:02.7 and 35.8. Sateka (Goodwin), another for Rotorua, covered 1200m in 1:22.9, picking up the tempo for 1000m in 1:05 and the last 600m in a dashing 35.5.

 

Café Lady (Leveque), a runner in the Desert Gold Stakes on Saturday, covered 1000m behind in 1:09, quickening for a final 600m in 36.6. Over the same ground Rotorua entry Sharp ’n’ Fast (Kasim) returned 1:05.9 and 38.5, Allanah (Mehmet) 1:06.8 and 38.7, Emmett’s Choice (Coleman) 1:07.4 and 39.2, Inanoff (Sliz) 1:09.3 and 42.5, and Sora Dawning (Turner) 1:10.3 and 39.2.

 

St Mark (Gillies) and St Moritz (Leveque) strode over 1200m in 1:17.2, 1000m in 1:03.1 and 600m in 37.6. Others timed at that distance included Cloudy Bay (Grylls) and Little Shamrock (O Richardson), who took 1:19.8, 1:04.2 and 36.3, I’m A Brunette (H McQuade) 1:21.5, 1:06 and 38.1, Essaouira (Dowling) 1:19.8, 1:04.8 and 37.5, Double Take (Moody) 1:19.7, 1:04.3 and 37.8, Viking Ace (H McQuade) 1:22.1, 1:07.2 and 39.4, Elway (Dowling) 1:25.2, 1:08.9 and 38.4, and Keep Winning (Verry) 1:20.5, 1:05.6 and 38.6.

 

El Volante (Coleman) and Jamie’s Choice (Tanaka), who run at Ellerslie and Rotorua respectively, did sound work over 1200m in 1:19.5, 1000m in 1:04.6 and 600m in 37.4. Wisecrack (Blair), who returns to Te Rapa on Saturday week, was restricted to 1:23 over 1200m, with the 1000m in 1:08 and 600m in 40.4. Riomoral (H McQuade) was allowed 1200m in 1:27.2, 1000m in 1:11.8 and 600m in 40.4.

 

On the all-weather track Douro Cup entry New Order (O Richardson) had pace on throughout 1200m in 1:15.8, 1:02.4 and 36.5. Gallant (Grylls) ran the same trip in 1:16.6, 1:02.8 and 36.8, while Vincent Street (Stack) ran 1000m in 1:07.4 and 39.5.

Irish Rebel looked on target for Saturday’s Little Avondale Wakefield Challenge Stakes when he and stablemate Minqar Qaim worked impressively at Matamata this morning.

 

Galloping 18m out on a dead course proper, Irish Rebel (Cameron) was travelling smoothly alongside Minqar Qaim (Brett) at the end of 1200m in 1:21.5, building momentum from the 1000m mark in 1:04.9 and a final 600m in 36.9, the best of the session on that section of the track.

 

Irish Rebel has made good progress since his second placing to stablemate Warhorse in the Eclipse Stakes at Ellerslie on New Year’s Day. Lack of ringcraft didn’t help him in that race, but with the benefit of the experience and a return to left-handed racing in the Trentham two-year-old feature he will be hard to beat on Saturday. Minqar Qaim ran an improver’s race for third in the Woodville Cup at his last start and will be an interesting runner in Saturday’s Anniversary Handicap.

 

Another pair from the Jason Bridgman team, Burgundy (Cameron) and Gijima (Yeung), had pace on from the start of their 1200m workout, running the full distance in 1:16.4, 1000m in 1:02.8 and 600m in 38.7. Burgundy is in good order for Saturday’s Wellington Stakes, while Gijima runs at Pukekohe on the weekend.

 

Suaza (Verry) confirmed her fitness for the Trentham Stakes when leading Lucky Aura (Mullineaux) to the end of 1200m in 1:19.8, 1000m in 1:04.6 and 600m in 38.7. Suaza struck an unsuitable wet track at her most recent outing but is capable of turning her form around.

 

Working against the rail in the five-metre position for Friday’s race meeting, Rich Hill Mile placegetter Villifye (Colgan) ran a sound trial for the Anniversary Handicap when leading Mosh Pit (Tanaka) after a solid 1200m in 1:16.2, 1000m in 1:02.6 and 600m in 37. The only other gallop on the rail saw Sharp ’n’ Fast (M Brosnan) and Croatia (Kasim) run good time over 1000m in 1:05.2 and 600m in 36.5.

 

Pacific Jewellers Wellington Cup prospects Green Supreme and Single Minded pleased their trainer Graham Richardson in separate workouts. Green Supreme (McDonald) cut out 1200m in 1:19.6, 1000m in 1:05.4 and 600m in 39.6, while Single Minded (Grylls) was likewise not extended to clock 1:19.9, 1:05.1 and 39.6. Both smart stayers have trained on well from their Ellerslie wins.

 

Stablemate Top Spot (Burton), who will also run in the Wellington Cup on Saturday week if she makes the field, looked bright when leading Dadzadreamer (Sapsworth) over the final stages of 1200m in 1:19.4, 1000m in 1:05.8 and 600m in 39.7. Fireside (O’Sullivan) appeared sharp for Pukekohe on Saturday when she and Precious Time (Kasim) cut out 1200m in 1:19.7, 1000m in 1:04.5 and 600m in a respectable 37.6.

 

Kaptain Kirkup (Coleman) strode over the same distance in 1:25.3, gathering momentum over the last 1000m in 1:07.6 and 600m in 38.7. He may struggle to gain a start in the Telegraph Handicap on Saturday, but has a lower grade race as an alternative.

 

Mr Thorpedo (Colgan) and Yourein (Stack) covered 1200m in 1:17.9, with poor light restricting sectional timing to 800m in 51.2. Fashion Rocks (Shirahama) and Viadana (Lammas) left 1200m behind in 1:18.2, 1000m in 1:04 and 600m in 38.3. They run at Pukekohe and Trentham respectively on the weekend.

 

Over And Above (Colgan) and Virginia Wade (Verry) were timed over 1000m in 1:05.4 and 600m in 38, while Rock ’n’ Pop (Brett) was kept to three-quarter-pace over 1200m in 1:30.2 and 45.4. He starts next at the Karaka Million twilight meeting on Sunday week.

 

Shez Kapable (K Jones) strode over 1200m in 1:20.9, 1000m in 1:06.5 and 600m in 39.6. Over the same ground Apache Sky (M Brosnan) returned 1:19.4, 1:05 and 39, Condescender (Brock) and Upstream Lad (C Ormsby) 1:21.6, 1:06.4 and 39, Authentic (Cameron) and Zelus (Brett) 1:21.4, 1:06.6 and 39.7, and Bonnie Mac (C Ormsby) and Fly Silca Fly (O Richardson) 1:19.9, 1:04.7 and 37.8.

 

On the sand Telegraph Handicap form runner Baby Guinness, with raceday rider Craig Grylls up, was not extended over the last 1000m of her work in 1:07.8 and 600m in 39.  

Sadist and Banchee prepared for the 1600-metre feature at Tauranga on Saturday with a solid hitout in training at Matamata this morning.

 

Galloping 14 metres out on a slow courser proper, Sadist (Colgan) and Banchee (Stack) were well matched over 1200m in 1:20.8, with their last 1000m in 1:06.1 and 600m in 38.5. Both John Sargent-trained horses were scratched from the Rich Hill Mile on Sunday due to the slow track and need only an improvement in conditions to show their worth on the weekend.

 

Woodville Cup candidate Minqar Qaim (Brett) and Kindred (Smillie), a likely starter at Rotorua on Friday, had pace on from the start of their 1200m gallop, clocking 1:18.9 for the full distance, 1:06 for 1000m and 39.4 for the final 600m.

 

Single Act (Brett) looked ready for a bold run in the Woodville two-year-old race when he worked boldly with Glad (Smillie) over 1000m in 1:08.3 and 600m in 38.2. Single Act, a Bachelor Duke colt with Jason Bridgman, finished third in his only start to date.

 

Resume (Russell) and I Did It (Yeung) worked well later in the session when cutting out 1200m in 1:19.9, 1:05 for 1000m and 38.8 for the last 600m. The Paul Jenkins-trained pair are likely runners at Rotorua on Friday. Over the same ground Tauranga entry Miss Sharapova (Coleman) returned 1:21.8, 1:06.4 and 38.6, while Apache Sky (M Brosnan) took 1:21.2, 1:05.7 and 38.9.

 

Better Together (Grylls) and promising maiden Red Unicorn (Mullineaux) did sound work for Tauranga over 1200m in 1:21.9, 1000m in 1:06.8 and 600m in 38.2. Shanghai Court (Colgan) looked ready to quit maiden class at Rotorua when he and Deecruz (Mullineaux) cut out 1000m in 1:04.7 and 600m in 38.8.

 

Illuminating (R Jones) tuned up for Ruakaka on Thursday with 1000m in 1:05.2 and 600m in 39. Over the same ground Karaka Vintage (Edmeads) and Gijima (Toh) did well to record 1:06 and 38.5, while View From The Top (Stack) and Game For Fame (Hercock) took 1:10.8 and 39.2 and Beauty Harmony (Wong) and Army Girl (Shirahama) 1:12.4 and 42.

 

On the all-weather track, Gold Coast Magic Millions prospect Travino (P McKay) underlined his fitness for his pending mission when he dashed over the final 600m of his work in 36.2, easily accounting for his gallop mate, an unnamed Oratorio colt. Travino is scheduled to fly to Sydney on Saturday and travel by road to Southport early the following week.

 

Sir Slick (Mullineaux) was his usual enthusiastic self over 1200m in 1:22.9, 1000m in 1:08.5 and 600m in 38.6. Won’t Lie Down (Coleman) and Come On Cuba (Blair) wasted no time over 1000m in 1:03.6 and 36.8, while New Order (O Richardson) clocked 1:04.8 and 36.9 and Valencia’s Image (C Ormsby) took 1:07.4 and 39.6. The Moroney-Clarken-trained pair run at Rotorua.

 

On the sand, Double Take (Coleman) and Cloudy Bay (C Ormsby) did sound work over 1200m in 1:20.3, 1000m in 1:04.5 and 600m in 37.6. Woodville entrant The Looker (Lammas) went with Exabelle (Toh) over the same ground in 1:19.7, 1:04.9 and 38.2.

 

Cat Woman (Allen) and Sometime Later (Stack) left 1000m behind in 1:05.8 and 37.2, while High Voltage (Swann) took 1:04.6 and 37.6. St Mark (Mullineaux) strode over 1200m in 1:23.7, 1000m in 1:09.1 and 600m in 39.2. Van Helsing (H McQuade) ran the same trip in 1:25.2, 1:10.3 and 41, while Champagne Lass (Wong) took 1:26.8 and 42.7, and Phar Las (Yeung) 1:28.5 and 44.2.     

Green Supreme underlined his readiness for the Dunstan Feeds Final on New Year’s Day when he galloped in dashing style at Matamata this morning.

 

On a plough that was conducive to fast times, Green Supreme (Mehmet) worked away steadily from the 1200m mark, running that distance in 1:16.2 and picking up the tempo over the last 1000m in 1:01.9 and the final 600m in a brilliant 35. The talented galloper has made good progress since his Te Rapa win and trainer Graham Richardson is satisfied that he will front up at peak fitness for the Ellerslie feature.

 

Several other members of the Richardson team also got through sound work. City Of Auckland Cup entry Don Domingo (Sapsworth) strode over ground, with his last 1200m in 1:17.6, 1000m in 1:03.3 and 600m in 36.6. Rich Hill Mile lightweight entry Villifye (Grylls) and Taupo Cup candidate Dadzadreamer (Sapsworth) put on the pace over 1200m in 1:14.6, with the last 1000m in 1:01.9 and 600m in 36.

 

Sircross (M Gibbs), another for the Rich Hill, was not after time over 1200m in 1:20.2, 1000m in 1:05 and 600m in 38. Single Minded (Grylls) and Top Shot (Burton) were paired over 1200m in 1:16.9, 1000m in 1:02.6 and 600m in 36.7. Richardson will attempt to get Single Minded into the City Of Auckland Cup field in favour of the Dunstan Final, while Top Shot is a lightweight Dunstan prospect. Plan Ex (Sapsworth), yet another member of the Richardson middle-distance ranks entered for Ellerslie, was let off with three-quarter pacework.

 

Magic Briar (Grylls) enhanced her prospects for the Blandford Lodge Railway Stakes when working with Taupo maiden candidate Sora Dawning (Turner) over 1000m in 1:01.9, the last 600m in a scintillating 34.8. It was excellent work by both horses, with Magic Briar understandably shading her companion. Sora Dawning has shown promise with a third and a fifth in her two starts to date.

 

On the all-weather track, Banchee (Mullineaux) turned in a sound trial for the Rich Hill Mile at Ellerslie when she and Mr Thorpedo (Verry) cut out 1000m in 1:03.3 and 600m in 36.8. Back on the plough, Banchee’s stablemate and race rival Sadist (Colgan) was not extended over 1000m in 1:06.5 and 39.4, while Casting Stones (Mullineaux) and St Moritz (Stack) took 1:03.9 and 35.6, and Ellerslie two-year-old candidates Marechal (Mullineaux) and Magic Shaft (Stack) recorded 1:05 and 36.8.

 

Hastings New Year’s Day runners Gunsmoke (Smillie) and Sovereign Rose (Cameron) left 1200m behind in a smart 1:14.2, their last 1000m in 1:01.8 and 600m in 35.9. Viking Ace (H McQuade) looked in good order for Ellerslie as he strode over 1200m in 1:20.2, 1:04.9 and 37, while Lucky Aura (Allen) covered the same distance in 1:25.4, 1:09.4 and 40.2, Wisecrack (Blair) 1:23.9, 1:08.5 and 40.5, Black Rocks (Swann) 1:20.1, 1:05.9 and 39.7, and Coffee Club (Shirahama) 1:27.7, 1:10.9 and 41.7.

 

Minqar Qaim (Cameron) covered 1200m in 1:18.7, 1000m in 1:03.4 and 600m in 37, while Rio Moral (H McQuade) returned 1:19.8, 1:04 and 37. Sir Tane (Yeung), who runs at Thames next Tuesday, was not pressed to run 1200m in 1:21.6, 1:05 and 37.6.

 

Glad (Cameron) and Precious Time (Brett) took 1:24.3 for 1200m, with their last 1000m in 1:07.8 and 600m in 38. Taupo candidate The Raconteur (S Collett) ran the last 1000m of his work in 1:05.8 and 600m in 37. Gospel (O Richardson) was working well at the end of 1000m in 1:06 and 600m in 36.7. Maraschino (Mullineaux) was kept to 1000m in 1:12.2 and 40.6.

Unbeaten colt Ocean Park signalled his Great Northern Guineas prospects with a dashing gallop at Matamata this morning.

 

With raceday rider Chad Ormsby in the saddle, Ocean Park did striding work on the all-weather track before sprinting in from the 800m in 48.8 and his final 600m in a brilliant 35.8. Next Monday’s three-year-old feature is a big step up in grade, but the Gary Hennessy-trained colt has obviously trained on well since taking his record to two wins from two starts at Ellerslie late last month.

 

Vincent Street (Turner) also did his Great Northern Guineas work on the all-weather track, covering 1000m in 1:09.2 and 600m in 41.7. He will be ridden by visiting Sydney jockey Nash Rawiller on Monday.

 

Race rival and likely favourite Burgundy (Cameron) galloped yesterday (Monday), right-handed and wide out on a slow course proper where he covered 1200m in 1:21, 600m in 38.3 and his final 400m in a smart 23.6. He has made pleasing progress since his trial win last week.

 

Back to this morning’s work, Mae Jinx (Coleman) galloped against the rail of the course proper, where the going was slow, cutting out 1000m in 1:07 and 600m well held in 37.2. She is in good order for the Newmarket Handicap at Ellerslie on Monday.

 

The only other gallop on the inside strip was by a pair of juveniles by Oratorio (P McKay) and Savabeel (J McKay). They ran in from the 800m in 53.8, with their final 600m in a respectable 37.4.

 

Other course proper work took place 16 metres out. Boxing Day runners Marechal (Stack) and Shanghai Bund (Mullineaux) had first use of the track, covering 1000m in 1:07.4 and 600m in 39.2.

 

Baby Guinness (Sliz), looking fresh after a short break, worked freely over 1200m in 1:24.2, with the last 1000m in 1:08 and 600m in 38.8. She is scheduled to resume at Hastings on New Year’s Day.

 

Heza Karma Karzi (Grylls) was bold in his work over 1200m in 1:20.6, 1000m in 1:04.8 and 600m in 39. After missing a start at Te Rapa last weekend he is now likely to run in the Rich Hill Mile on New Year’s Day. Stablemate Sadist (Colgan), who has the same target, strode over 1200m in 1:23.2, 1000m in 1:07.6 and 600m in 39.4.

 

New Zealand 2000 Guineas winner Rock ’n’ Pop (Cameron) was given his first serious work since returning north, covering 1000m freely in 1:10.4 and 600m in 41.8. He is coming to hand well for Jason Bridgman and is likely to resume in early January.

 

Yourein (Leveque) went at an even pace over 1200m in 1:20.3, 1000m in 1:06.9 and 600m in 40.8. Fellow Dunstan Final contendor Suaza (Verry) covered the same ground in 1:22.3, 1:06.8 and 39.3, while possible Eight Carat Classic starter Rose Of Falkirk (M Brosnan) returned 1:23.5, 1:08.3 and 42.2.

 

On the sand, Maidantus (M Gibbs) and Green Wings (Tanaka) turned in a sound trial for Ellerslie on Boxing Day over 1000m in 1:05 and 600m in 39.2. Costello (P McKay) and Estrato (J McKay) ran the same trip in tidy style in 1:07.2 and 38.4.

 

Mercury Mistress (Dowling) took 1:26.6 for 1200m, with her last 1000m in 1:10.1 and 600m in 40.3. Thorn Star (O’Sullivan) and Clan Munro (Yeung) cut out 1000m in 1:07.2, the final 600m in 39.2.

 

Over 1200m Riomoral (H McQuade) returned 1:22.4, 1:08 and 39.8, while Powerplaya (Grylls) took 1:24.8, 1:09.9 and 41.8. Ready Steady (O’Sullivan) was restricted to 1000m in 1:12.8 and 42.8.

 

On the all-weather track Gospel (O Richardson) appeared to be travelling well at the end of 1000m in 1:06.9 and 600m in 37.2. Captain Kirkup (Kasim) took 1:21.4 for 1200m and 40.1 for the last 600m.

Lagonissi and Doubletake prepared for Te Rapa on Saturday with a sound gallop at Matamata this morning.

 

Working 23 metres out on a dead course proper, Lagonissi (Grylls) and Doubletake (C Ormsby) maintained a solid rate over 1200m in 1:18.6, with the last 1000m in 1:04.1 and 600m in 37.7. Lagonissi’s fitness levels have improved with her first-up run and on Saturday returns to the scene of her two wins to date, while Doubletake takes solid placed form into the maiden staying event.

 

Te Rapa open stayers’ candidate Heza Karma Karzi (Allen) worked well over 1200m in 1:18.1, 1000m in 1:04.2 and 600m in 38.2, while stablemate and race rival Sir Slick (Mullineaux) did similar work in 1:19.2, 1:05 and 38.9. Yourein (Lui) and Sadist (Colgan), two more from the Sargent team racing at Te Rapa, ran the same trip in 1:18.8, 1:04.3 and 37.7.

 

Green Supreme (McDonald) and Dadzadreamer (Tanaka) did good work later in the session with 1200m in 1:18.7, 1000m in 1:04.5 and 600m in 38.9. They both run at Te Rapa. Shanghai Bund (Leveque) and Marechal (Lui), who are being aimed at the Ellerslie carnival, caught the eye when cutting out 1000m in 1:05 and 600m in a smart 36.7. 

 

Minqar Qaim (Brett) and Razziya Of Sydney (Cameron) prepared for Te Rapa with 1200m in 1:21.3, 1000m in 1:05.9 and 600m in 39, while Plan Ex (Tanaka), a runner at Awapuni on Saturday, strode over the same ground in 1:24.6, 1:09.8 and 40.7.

 

Cloudy Bay (Coleman) was kept up to his work for the final stages of 1200m with The Lions Rule (O Richardson) in 1:19.4, 1000m in 1:04 and 600m in 37.5. Ghostinthemachine (O Richardson) and Pentango (C Ormsby) covered the same ground in 1:21, 1:06.2 and 38.5.

 

Casting Stones (Colgan) and Choice Bro (Grylls) cut out 1000m in 1:06.3 and 600m in 38.4, while King’s Salute (Brett) and Irish Rebel (Cameron) took 1:06.7 and 38.2. Capone (Bosson) left 1200m behind in 1:25.2, 1000m in 1:08.5 and 600m in 40.9.

 

On the all-weather track Antonio Lombardo (D Johnson) and Vincent Mangano (P McKay) ran in from the 800m in 49.8, with their final 600m in an impressive 36.2. Antonio Lombardo is in good shape for the Challenge Stakes at Awapuni on the weekend.

 

Stablemate Thundermore (Wratten) prepared for Te Rapa when bowling over the last 1200m of his work in 1:14.9, 1000m in 1:01.7 and 600m in 36.8. Smartly (Grylls) ran 1000m in 1:03.6, the final 600m in 36.3, while Costello (D Johnson) and Witt’s End (S Collett) had pace on when clocking 1:02.8 and 36.3.

 

Cap Ferrat (D Johnson) was timed over his last 800m in 50.2 and 600m in 37.2. Won’t Lie Down was well contained over 1000m in 1:08.2 and 600m in 39.6.

Villifye and Mydiamond Bracelet prepared for Saturday’s big Te Rapa meeting with a sound gallop at Matamata this morning.

 

Working 23m out on a dead course proper, Villifye (Colgan) and Mydiamond Bracelet (Sapsworth) maintained a strong gallop over 1200m in 1:18.2, 1000m in 1:04.3 and a final 600m in 37.9. It was good work by the pair of Graham Richardson-trained mares, especially given it took place later in a busy session.

 

Villifye will be chasing her fourth consecutive win on the weekend, with the choice yet to be made whether she runs in the Gr. 2 Cal Isuzu Stakes or the Rating 85 event over the same 1600 metres. Mydiamond Bracelet, who followed her recent Te Rapa win with a useful effort in the Auckland Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes, is an entry for the Listed Ag and Turf Sprint at Te Rapa.

 

Magic Briar (Grylls), a rival for Mydiamond Bracelet, caught the eye when she shaded Awapuni-bound Miss Thorn (Smillie) at the end of 1200m in 1:17.7, 1000m in 1:02.8 and 600m in 37.2.

 

Waikato Times Gold Cup candidate Better Together (Lui) was partnered over ground by Wisecrack (Coleman), with their 1200m taking 1:19.3, the last 1000m in 1:04.7 and 600m in 38.5. It was solid work by both horses. Wisecrack, who appears to have taken no harm from his unplaced Ellerslie run last week, is set to run in the R75 2400 on Saturday.

 

Don Domingo (Sapsworth) prepared for the Waikato Times Gold Cup with 1200m in 1:17.5, 1000m in 1:03.2 and 600m in 38.2, while race rival Dawn Ghost (Waddell) covered the same ground in 1:20.2 and 38.5.

 

Burgundy (Cameron) took time honours over 1000m, cutting out the distance in a deceptive 1:03.2 and the final 600m in 36.7. That was the smart colt’s first full gallop since returning from a brief rest and showed that he had lost none of his style.

 

Miss Sharapova (Coleman) who runs at Ellerslie on Sunday, returned 1:04.8 for 1000m and 37.9 for her final 600m. Warhorse (Cameron), an entry for the Te Rapa Listed juvenile event, went with Tauranga Friday starter Precious Time (Smillie) over 1000m in 1:06 and the last 600m in 38.3.

 

Kiwi Spirit (Moody) and Valencia’s Image (Kasim) prepared for Tauranga on Friday with 1000m in 1:04.3 and 600m in 37.9. Over the same distance Dollario (Colgan) took 1:06.6 and 38.8, Single Act (Smillie) and Irish Rebel (Cameron) 1:05.5 and 38, Needastar (Dowling) 1:07.2 and 39.5, Captain Kirkup (Kasim) 1:05.6 and 38.3, and Sora Dawning (Turner) and Dawn Star (Yeung) 1:05.8 and 37.2.

 

Promising three-year-old Ocean Park (C Ormsby) and Fast Tempo (Shirahama) got through good work over 1000m in 1:07.2 and 600m in 39.2. Te Rapa runner Toma Valea (M Brosnan) and Ellerslie-bound Apache Sky (Kasim) covered the same ground in a smart 1:03.2 and 36.8.

 

Heza Karma Karzi (Colgan) was keen in his work over 1200m in 1:16.2, 1000m in 1:03.3 and 600m in 39.3. Stablemate Sir Slick (Mullineaux) ran over 1200m in 1:21.8, 1:06 and 38.2, while Straight Furrow (Swann) took 1:22.7, 1:07.8 and 41, Suaza (Verry) 1:19.3, 1:06.4 and 38.5, and Orutan (Waddell) and Virginia Wade (Grylls) 1:20.2, 1:04.8 and 378.8.

 

Beauty Leap (S Wong) and Coffee Club (Dowling) left 1000m behind in 1:07.6 and 600m in 37.6, Karaka Vintage (Edmeads) and Ardeche (Cameron) took 1:06.3and 38.7, and She’s A Cougar (Stack) and Imaran (H Wong) 1:04.6 and 37.8.

 

Single Minded (Grylls) and Rock My World (Tanaka) strode over 1200m in 1:20.4, with their last 1000m taking 1:06.7 and 600m 39.6. Sirrevie (M Gibbs) and Commander Cody (Tanaka) ran the same trip in 1:24.3, 1:06.4 and 39. Over 1000m Tauranga entries Glad (Brett) and Sovereign Rose (Tong) were not extended in 1:10.2 and 38.6.

 

Other gallops: 1200m sand: Sir Tane (Turner) 1:19.7, 36.8; Connie Be Good (Kasim) 1:18.6, 37.8; Razziya Of Sydney (Smillie) 1:23.7, 39.7; Shahbab (O Richardson) 1:20.3, 36.7; Sadist (Colgan) 1:23.1, 40.3; Little Chief (M Brosnan) 1:19.4, 38.2.

 

1200m all-weather: New order (O Richardson) 1:23.6, 38; Beauty Supreme (McFetridge) 1:28.4, 44.5.

 

1000m sand: Savarhys (Yeung) 1:11.7, 41.6; Fireside (H Wong) and Clan Munro (Turner) 1:05.5, 37.6; Lady Aura (Lui) and Bohemia (Mullineaux) 1:05.4, 37.8; Allsortsafun (Godwin) and Pinot Express (Forbes) 1:05.3, 36.5; Veronica Hall (Coleman) 1:06.2, 37.7; Zealous (Cameron) and Authentic (Brett) 1:08.3, 37.9; Fleet Street (Turner) 1:10.2, 40.5; Kaleidoscope (H Wong) 1:10.8, 41.2; Abagale (Goodwin) and Paradise Chief (Forbes) 1:05.6, 36.8; Power Playa (Blair) and Blue Moon (Turner) 1:01.4, 36.6; Riomoral (H McQuade) 1:05.6, 38.7.

 

1000m all-weather: Slashing (Moody) 1:05.4, 37.8.

Xanadu looked set to extend her unbeaten record at Ellerslie on Saturday when she worked brilliantly at Matamata this morning.

 

On a good plough, Xanadu (Grylls) was partnered by Guess What (R Jones), moving off steadily from the 1200m to cover that distance in 1:17.2, putting on the pace over the final 1000m in 1:01.4 and 600m in 35. Xanadu has left a big impression in her two wins to date and steps up another level for the three-year-old 1600m at Ellerslie. Guess What, a lightly tried maiden in the Paul Shailer team, did well to stay with Xanadu and may be one to watch at Waipukurau on Sunday.

 

Mae Jinx (Coleman) prepared for Saturday’s Concorde Handicap with a smart gallop over 1000m in 1:02.4 and 600m in 35. It was good solo work by the talented sprinter, who had no luck from her draw in the Counties Bowl. The winner of that race, Undisclosed (P McKay), who is also heading for the Concorde, was allowed a steady gallop with Grande Rosso (Wratten) over 1000m in 1:04.2 and 600m in 37.2. Undisclosed looks very bright.

 

Vincent Street (Turner) turned in a sound trial for Ellerslie when working over 1200m in 1:14.2, picking up Have No Mercy (K Hillis) for a final 1000m in 1:01.5 and 600m in 37. Summer’s Boy (Russell) drew attention to his weekend prospects with 1000m in 1:02.8 and 600m in 35.7.

 

Pinot Express (Goodwin) and Dancing Embers (Forbes) caught the eye over 1000m in 1:04.4 and 600m in 35.3, while Condescender (C Ormsby) and Kiwi Spirit (Brock) also did well over the same trip in 1:01.8 and 35.3, and Cat Woman (Mollet) returned 1:02.3 and 35.2. Others to show up over 1000m included Marcello (Forbes) and Lozada (J McKay) in 59.2 and 35.9, Rose Of Falkirk (Kasim) and Karaka Jack (M Brosnan) who took 1:03.2 and 37.3, Darci’s Gold (Edmeads) and a Lucky Unicorn filly (Sami) 1:02 and 37.2.

 

Red Ruler (Yeung) worked boldly over 1200m in 1:14.6, 1000m in 1:02 and 600m in 36.5. He may run in the Waikato Times Gold Cup on Saturday week or be reserved for the Zabeel Classic on Boxing Day. Burgundy (Cameron) was allowed his first quicker work since returning from a let-up, running 800m in 1:01.5 and 600m in 45.6. He thrived in the break that followed his disappointing run in the New Zealand 2000 Guineas and is being aimed at the Great Northern Guineas.

 

Kuroda Field (Mullineaux) and Maciano (Lui) wasted no time over 1000m in 1:01.6, the last 600m in 35.8. Kuroda Field, the winner of two of her 11 starts in Victoria, is a recent addition to the Sargent stable.

 

Rio Moral (H McQuade) was well contained over 1000m in 1:07 and 600m in 39.6. Karaka Vintage (Brett) and Sunset Pass (Smillie) covered the same ground in 1:07.8 and 38.9, Gijima (Yeung) and a High Chaparral gelding (Cameron) 1:02.5 and 35.4, and Magic Briar (Blair) 1:08.8 and 41. She is likely to run next in the Listed 1400 at Te Rapa on Saturday week.

 

Green Manner (Tanaka) turned in a solid trial for Ellerslie with 1200m in 1:16.4, 1000m in 1:03.8 and 600 in 38. Over the same ground Atomic Road (M Brosnan) returned 1:18.8, 1:01.3 and 35.6, Arctic Heights (Colgan) 1:24.2, 1:08.2 and 39.6, Dadzadreamer (Coleman) and Top Spot (Burton) 1:17.6, 1:03.3 and 37.6, and Van Helsing (K McQuade) 1:20.8, 1:07.3 and 39.2.

 

On the all-weather track Ellerslie entry Seaflyte (W Hillis) strode over 1200m in 1:24.2, 1000m in 1:08.6 and 600m in 39.6. Connie Be Good (Grylls) ran the same distance in 1:20.2, 1:06 and 41.6, while Supercharged (Forbes) left 1000m behind in 1:04 and 38.3. 

 

Other gallops: 1000m plough: Fireside (Coleman) 1:12.2, 41; Miss Thorn (Brett) 1:11.3, 42.5; Fleet Street (R Jones) 1:09.6, 41.3; Cloudy Bay (Brock) 1:08.6, 39.1; Upstream Lad (C Ormsby) 1:08, 39.4; Corporal Lance (Brown) 1:12.8, 43.2; Abbey Tralae (Forbes) 1:06.8, 39; Beauty Harmony (S Wong) 1:13, 43.8; Sir Tane (O’Sullivan) 1:14.7, 44.2; Maidantus (M Gibbs) and Get The Message (Tanaka) 1:05.7, 38.2; Fiscal Wings (Toh) 1:12, 43.7. 

Promising stayer Wisecrack prepared for Ellerslie on Saturday with an impressive gallop at Matamata this morning.

 

On dead ground against the course proper rail, which is in the nine-metre position for tomorrow’s race meeting, Wisecrack (Coleman) rolled into his work over ground and was timed from the 1200m mark in 1:17, with the last 1000m in 1:03.2 and final 600m in 36.8.

 

The Ken and Bev Kelso-trained gelding has done everything right since his impressive return to winning form earlier this month and will be hard to beat in Saturday’s R75 Dunstan series qualifier.

 

The only other horse to gallop on the course proper was Heza Karma Karzi (Grylls), who did his work 22m out where he was timed over 1200m in 1:17.6, 1000m in 1:03.2 and 600m in 37.2. The big chestnut has come through his first-up Tauranga win in good order and runs in Saturday’s Eagle Technology Stakes.

 

Stablemate and race rival Sir Slick (Mullineaux) prepared for the Ellerslie 1600-metre feature on the plough, which was in good condition. The veteran looked very bright and willing as he cut out 1200m in 1:18.5, with the last 1000m in 1:03.9 and 600m in 36.4.

 

Levin Classic contendor Shanghai Bund (McDonald) was partnered by another member of the Sargent team heading to Otaki, Yourein (Lui), over a soundly run 1200m in 1:17.3, 1000m in 1:02.1 and 600m in 35.4.

 

Pre-post Levin Classic favourite Antonio Lombardo (J McKay) was let off with light work on the all-weather track in company with race rival Estrato (P McKay). Their 600m at the end of two rounds of striding work was completed in a smart 35.9. Estrato appeared to be travelling better at the finish, but for not the first time his well performed stablemate was doing only as much he had to.

 

Back on the plough, Levin Stakes candidate Vincent Mangano (P McKay) went solo over 1000m in 1:03.5 and 600m in 36.4. Race rival Kaptain Kirkup (Kasim) was partnered by Fly Silca Fly (Grylls) over a solid 1200m in 1:16.3, 1000m in 1:01.1 and 600m in 35.6.

 

Sans Souci (Edmeads), who may also head to Otaki, and Jetset Man (Brett) did sound work over 1000m in 1:04.4 and 600m in 36.1. Ellerslie entrant Just A Gem (Colgan) and Demophon (Lui), who goes to Otaki, dashed over the same distance in 1:00.4 and 35.5, while Ellerslie runners Gospel (O Richardson) and Pentango (Brock) covered 1200m in 1:17.2, 1000m in 1:02 and 600m in a slick 35.

 

Toma Valea (R Jones) and Atomic Road (Kasim) cut out 1000m in 1:03.5 and 35.4, Geariguru (Swann) and Storm Patrol (S Collett) recorded 1:02.8 and 36.8, and Dickens (Russell) 1:04.4 and 37.9.

 

Brave Ali (Dowling) and Fashion Rocks (Lammas) strode through 1200m in 1:17.7, with their last 1000m in 1:03.6 and 600m in 37.6. So Regal (Verry) and Suaza (Mullineaux) ran the same trip in 1:18, 1:03.2 and 36.8, Nicole Amy (Russell) 1:20.2, 1:06.1 and 39.2, and Astronomical (R Jones) 1:24, 1:08.6 and 40.6.

 

Mr Clooney (Goodwin) prepared for Ellerslie with 1000m in 1:05, quickening attractively over the final 600m in 35.6. Viking Ace (Lammas) covered the same ground in 1:03.8 and 37.3, while Mr Trim (O’Sullivan) was unextended to run 1:11.6 and 41.4.

 

On the all-weather track Ellerslie entrant Armadio Estrada (S Collett) did well over 1000m in 1:02.3 and 600m in 35.8. Xalted (C Ormsby) got through 1200m well in 1:16.4, 1000m in 1:02.2 and 600m in 36.3.

 

Other gallops: 1200m plough: Lagonissi (Grylls) 1:18.2, 1:02.8, 35.5; He’s Under The Gun (C Ormsby) 1:18.8, 1:03.6, 27.4; Virginia Wade (Colgan) and Orutan (Grylls) 1:17.4, 1:02.2, 36; Sadist (Allen) 1:17.6, 1:02.9, 36.4; Green Supreme (McDonald) 1:19.4, 1:06.1, 39.3; Matabrahma (Forbes) 1:18.9, 1:04.7, 38.8; Sacred Warrior (Russell) and I Did It (B Lang) 1:18.2, 1:04.3, 39.

 

1000m plough: Fireside (Turner) and a Shinko King gelding (O’Sullivan) 1:08, 39.8.    

Sir Slick and Heza Karma Karzi prepared for a return to racing at Tauranga on Saturday with bold work at Matamata this morning.

 

Galloping 18m out on a dead course proper, Sir Slick (Mullineaux) and Heza Karma Karzi (Grylls) hit top seed as they passed the 1000-metre mark and completed the distance in 1:01.9, with the final 600m in 37.2. The veteran Sir Slick will be having his first start for John Sargent in the open 1400 at Tauranga, while Heza Karma Karzi is back with the same trainer after spending last season by Leo Molloy.

 

From those quarters he won fresh-up at Tauranga in January, while Sir Slick has an even more impressive record of five wins on the track. Leith Innes has been engaged to ride the 10-year-old.

 

The Raconteur (S Collett) completed his serious training for Saturday’s Christchurch Casino New Zealand Cup when working over ground, with the last 1200m in 1:18.9 and 1000m in 1:05. He was joined by Juggernaut Rock (C Ormsby) at the 800m and the pair completed the final 600m in 37.8. The Raconteur never figured in his most recent start at Ellerslie last week but was a very good third in Listed company the time before. Trainer Jason Price has him in solid order for his Riccarton test.

 

Red Ruler (McDonald) and Better Together (Lui) had first use of the track when they cut out 1200m in 1:17.9, 1000m in 1:02.6 and 600m in 36.4. An off track didn’t suit Red Ruler when he finished out of the placings at Ellerslie last week, but he appears to have taken no harm from the run. Dependent on whether he secures an invitation to next month’s Hong Kong International meeting, he may start instead in the Counties Cup on Saturday week.

 

Kahngofasta (S Collett) and Te Ariki (Wenn) prepared for Tauranga with 1200m in 1:19.4, 1000m in 1:03.6 and 600m in 37, while Single Minded (Grylls) and Maidantus (M Gibbs) left 1000m behind in 1:06.4 and 600m in 38.2.

 

On the plough, where fast times were common, Sand Jewell (M Brosnan) and Master Guru (P Ormsby) had pace on throughout 1200m in 1:13.9, 1000m in 1:00 and 600m in 35.9. It was solid work by in form trainer Mark Brosnan’s pair. Sand Jewell, who has two wins and four placings from her last six starts, is likely to run at Te Awamutu on Sunday.

 

Veronica Hall (Coleman) looked the goods for her debut at Te Awamutu when she cut out 1000m in 1:01.6 and 600m in 35.4. She was a recent trial winner on the course. Tauranga candidate Yourein (Leveque) and So Regal (Hunt), who may go to Dargaville on Friday, were in dashing form over 1200m in 1:14.4, 1000m in 1:01.2 and 600m in 36.3.

 

Heza Rebel (S Wong) and Viadana (Dowling) prepared for Tauranga with a smart 1200m workout in 1:15.8, 1000m in 1:00.8 and 600m in 36.6. Over the same ground stablemates Loviste (S Wong) and Heads Up (Dowling) returned 1:18.6, 1:03.7 and 36.9, Encosta Larrocha (Verry) took 1:14.8, 1:00.3 and 35.4, Rose Of Falkirk (M Brosnan) and The Debutante (P Ormsby) 1:16.7, 1:01.5 and 35.5, and Kiwi Spirit (R Jones) 1:18.6, 1:03.4 and 37.2.

 

Antonio Lombardo (J McKay), looking bright as he continued his preparation for the Levin Classic later this month, was paired with Marcello (C Ormsby) over 1000m in 1:03.7 and 600m in 37.3. Ready Steady (O’Sullivan) did good work for Tauranga when working with Te Awamutu candidate Lady Burlesque (H Wong) over 1200m in 1:16.2, 1000m in 1:00.5 and 600m in 35.4.

 

On the all-weather track Condescender (C Ormsby) and Chicharita (O Richardson) caught the eye as they prepared for Tauranga with 1200m in 1:16.6, 1000m in 1:00.5 and 600m in 36. Dawn Ghost (Woollams) strode over two rounds, finishing off with 1200m in 1:22.6, 1000m in 1:07.4 and 600m in 37.8.

 

Xalted (C Ormsby) ran the last 1000m of his work in 1:03.6 and 600m in 36.4, while Magic Briar (Blair) and Quest (McFetridge) were well held over 1000m in 1:10.2 and 600m in 41.2.

 

Other gallops: 1200m plough: Pinaz (Barnabas) and Sir Tane (Brown) 1:19.5, 36; Upstream Lad (Grylls) 1:24.4, 38.3; Lights Are Shining (Colgan) and Saint Mark (Mullineaux) 1:17.2, 36.3; Staged (Grylls) 1:22.4, 36.6; Sophia’s Dream (Coleman) 1:23.4, 37.6; Diamonds Are Blue (O Richardson) 1:24.2, 40.4; True Light (Grylls) and Saw Her Walkin By (Dowling) 1:16.9, 37.3.

 

1000m plough: Authentic (Brett) and Sovereign Rose (Edmeads) 1:02.5, 35.8; Arctic Heights (Lui) and Justagem (Mullineaux) 1:08.4, 37.9; Glad (Edmeads) 1:08.6, 40.8; Mr Trim (Barnabas) and Shinko King gelding (O’Sullivan) 1:07.2, 37.5; La Tourneau (Mullineaux) and Bonamici (Colgan) 1:04.6, 36.5; Calcutta (H Wong) and Soradawning (R Jones) 1:06.9, 37.3; Sharp ’N’ Fast (R Jones) 1:10.8, 35.8; Matabrava (Russell) 1:09.5, 41.8; Boomstix (Wenn) 1:08.8, 38.7; Redoute’s Choice-Zirna filly (Toh) 1:14.5, 44.6.

 

Shanghai Bund confirmed his trip to Christchurch for the Sothys New Zealand 2000 Guineas with a sound gallop at Matamata this morning.

 

Galloping on a good plough with raceday rider Vinnie Colgan in the saddle, Shanghai Bund stretched out freely over 1200m in 1:16.9, with the last 1000m in 1:02.2 and 600m in a smart 35.7. Even allowing that he worked early in the session when the plough was at its fastest, it was impressive solo work. He and other northern horses heading to Christchurch were due to fly from Auckland early Wednesday.

 

The John Sargent-trained three-year-old has trained on well from his last start Hastings win and is currently a $7 third favourite for Saturday’s classic behind Burgundy at $2.40 and Anabandana at $3.20. Colgan has picked up the ride on Shanghai Bund following James McDonald’s engagement for Anabandana on the assumption that she lines up against the males on the weekend.

 

Nicole Amy (Russell), a late entry for next week’s Coupland’s Bakeries Mile at Riccarton, underlined her fitness with bold work over 1200m in 1:14.8, 1000m in 1:00.6 and 600m in 35.8. She too has gone on the right way for Paul Jenkins since her return to form at Ellerslie.

 

Baby Guinness (Grylls) prepared for the Listed sprint at Te Rapa on Saturday with 1000m in 1:00.8 and 600m in 36.2, good time later in the session. Wisecrack (Coleman), another for Te Rapa, was paired with likely Gisborne runner Medici (Grylls) over a solid 1200m in 1:16.4, 1000m in 1:01.6 and 600m in 35.6.

 

Danrose (Kasim) and Toma Valea (P Ormsby), members of the in form Mark Brosnan team headed for Te Rapa, cut out 1000m in 1:02.6 and 600m in 35.7. Fashion Rocks (Dowling) and Handsome Dan (Brown) ran time over 1200m in 1:17, 1000m in 1:00.4 and 600m in 35.4.

 

Marechal (Grylls) and Army Girl (Lammas), trial winners by General Nediym and Captain Rio respectively, tuned up for the Te Rapa juvenile event with attractive work over 1000m in 1:02.9, the last 600m in 35.8. Need A Star (Lammas) and Essaouira (Dowling) left 1200m behind in 1:14.7, 1000m in 1:00.4 and 600m in 35.5.

 

Authentic (Brett) and Power Climber (Smiley) covered the same ground in 1:17.2, 1:02.8 and 36.9, Captain Cruising (Weatherley) and Global Partner (McGill) took 1:19.6, 1:03.7 and 35.8, Brave Ali (Wong) and Coffee Club (Lammas) 1:17.1, 1:03.2 and 36.7, Encosta Larrocha (Verry) 1:18.8, 1:04 and 36.6, and Fromelles (Mullineaux) and Chennai (Leveque) 1:17.9, 1:02.6 and 35.6.

 

He’s Under The Gun (Grylls) looked bright when kept to 1200m in 1:23.7, 1:06.9 and 41.2, while Heads Up (Dowling) returned 1:27.6, 1:10.4 and 40.9, Connie Be Good (Kasim) 1:24, 1:08.8 and 39.3, and Cool Radiance (Turner) 1:21.6, 1:05.4 and 35.8. Lozada (P McKay) and Quintero (J McKay) cut out 1000m in 1:00.4 and 600 in 36.2.

 

Minqar Qaim (Smiley) underlined his progress when working with Academy Royale (Brett) over 1000m in 1:01.7 and 600m in 35.8. Van Helsing (S Collett) ran the same trip in 1:01.8 and 36.6, Beautiful Brother (Swann) took 1:03.1 and 37, Abbey Tralae (Goodwin) and Allsortsafun (Taylor) 1:06.2 and 36.4, Pinzee (T Autridge) 1:03.8 and 37.7, and Little Shamrock (Coleman) and Sirrevie (M Gibbs) 1:06.2 and 35.8. 

 

On the all-weather track Art Beat (K Hillis) was unextended over 1000m in 1:09.2 and 600m in 40. She runs next in the Listed sprint at Te Rapa.

 

Other gallops: 1000m plough: Better Together (J Hunt) 1:04.7, 37.2; Precious Time (Edmeads) and Te Akau King (Toh) 1:03.8, 36.2; Astronomical (Barnabas) 1:04.7, 37.2; Sweet Pass (Smiley) and Sans Souci (Brett) 1:07.2, 38.9; Guess What (Lewis) and a Pins gelding (Turner) 1:11.6, 40.8.

Banchee confirmed her fitness for Flemington on the weekend when she turned in an impressive gallop at Matamata this morning.

 

Working 22m out on a dead course proper, Banchee (McDonald) worked away from the 1200m mark to run the full distance in 1:17.2, picking up momentum over the last 1000m in 1:03 and rounding off with a final 600m in 37. It was excellent work by the John Sargent-trained mare, who is scheduled to fly to Melbourne tomorrow.

 

Banchee’s mission is the A$500,000 Myer Classic, at weight-for-age over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, for which she was assured of a start when entries closed yesterday (Monday). Another entry is fellow Peter and Phillip Vela-owned Guiseppina, but at 22 in the preference order she is not guaranteed to make the 16-horse cut. James McDonald has been engaged to ride Guiseppina, with the proviso that he will switch to Banchee should the other mare not make the field.

 

Miss Upstart (Sapsworth) and Green Supreme (McDonald) turned in a sound trial for Friday’s Matamata meeting when they cut out 1200m 1:18.2, 1000m in 1:04 and 600m in 37.6. Green Supreme has trained on well from his last start second, which was his first run for Graham Richardson since returning from Hong Kong. Miss Upstart has had no luck with barrier draws so far this spring but certainly looks well.

 

Three Wishes (Wenn) did well late in the session to record 1:03.3 and 37.2 over 1000m. She is scheduled to run at Te Awamutu on Saturday. Dawn Ghost (Mullineaux) prepared for Saturday’s Feilding Gold Cup at Awapuni with 1200m in 1:24.8, 1000m in 1:08.8 and 600m in 38.9.

 

Red Ruler (C Ormsby) looked bright when sent over 1200m in 1:22.3 with the last 1000m in 1:06.5 and 600m in an impressive 37.5. He has trained on well from his Spring Classic placing and will run in the Nicola Feuillate Stakes at Ellerslie next Tuesday.

 

Thorn Star (Coleman) and Sir Tane (Brown), form runners in maiden grade on their home track on Friday, left 1000m behind in 1:06.3 and 600m in 37.5. Over the same ground Sharp ’N’ Fast (R Jones) recorded 1:07.4 and 39.3, Quest (Coleman) and Edensor (Wells) 1:04.8 and 38.5, Crown Of Thorns (Moody) 1:06.5 and 38.5, and Ulittlebeauty (Turner) 1:10.5 and 40.6.

 

New Zealand 2000 Guineas candidate Shanghai Bund (McDonald) got through his work well over 1200m in 1:20.4, 1000m in 1:06.2 and 600m in 39.7. La Montoya (Allen) covered the same ground in 1:21.7, 1:06 and 38.2.

 

On the sand, Don Domingo (Sapsworth) turned in a sound trial for the Feilding Gold Cup when striding over 1200m in 1:16.8, 1000m in 1:03.4 and 600m in 37.6. He looks bright and will appreciate the return to handicap conditions on Saturday. Race rival The Raconteur (S Collett) was partnered by Juggernaut Rock (C Ormsby) over 1000m in 1:05.2 and 600m in 37.5. The Raconteur has trained on well from his last start stakes placing.

 

Cool Cruising (Weatherley) prepared for Friday’s local meeting with a sharp 1000m in 1:02.8 and 600m in 36.7. Sequin (Coleman) and Rock My World (Sapsworth) also ran good time over 1000m in 1:02.6 and 36.5, Viking Ace (H McQuade) took 1:05.9 and 38.5, whereas Te Awamutu sprint candidate Mae Jinx (Coleman) was restricted to 1000m in 1:11.3 and 39.8.

 

On the all-weather track Major Rio (Kesner) prepared for Ellerslie next Tuesday with a smart 1000m in 1:03.7, the final 600m in 37.5. Stablemate Art Beat (K Hillis) ran the same trip in 1:05.8 and 38.5. She runs next in the Listed sprint at Te Rapa on Saturday week.

 

Promising maiden Xanadu (Grylls) did well in company with Magic Briar (Cook) to cut out 1000m in 1:02.9 and 600m in 35.3. Matamata entries Loviste (Dowling) and Juliann (Lammas) left 1200m behind in 1:19.5, 1000m in 1:05.4 and 600m in 37.9.

 

Two Ticks (Moody) covered the same ground in 1:20.2, 1:05.5 and 39.3, while Keepa Lady (K Jones) recorded 1:23.2, 1:08.2 and 39, and Saw Her Walkin By (Lammas) and True Light (Dowling) 1:20.6, 1:05.6 and 40.4.

 

Over 1000m Beauty Leap (Dowling) returned 1:05.8 and 39.5, and Luvlybubbly (Russell) 1:07.2 and 40.4.

Ellerslie candidates Whosyourmaster and Sophia’s Dream looked the part for their weekend engagements when they worked together at Matamata this morning.

 

Galloping 23m out on a heavy course proper, Whosyourmaster (Barnabas) and Sophia Dream (Coleman) worked away steadily from the 1200m mark to run that distance in 1:24.6, picking up the tempo to run the last 1000m in 1:07 and completing their final 600m in 38.9.

 

Whosyourmaster appears to have trained on well from his last start maiden win and will start on Saturday in the R70 colts’ and geldings’ 1400, while Sophia’s Dream is forward to resume in the maiden 1200.

 

Baby Guinness (Sliz), who will be chasing a hat-trick at Trentham on Saturday, looked bright in her work over 1200m in 1:21.8, 1000m in 1:07.1 and the last 600m without being pushed in 40.5. Kaptain Kirkup (Coleman), another entered for Trentham, was partnered by Pentango (Kasim) over 1200m in 1:24.7, 1000m in 1:08.9 and 600m in 40.4. 

 

Nicole Amy (Russell), who may also head south, was not after time over 1200m in 1:25.1, 1:09.9 and 42.2, while Ballynova (Lammas) and Zardetto (Bosson) covered 1200m in 1:24.3 but after running some fast early sectionals eased up over their final 600m in 44.8.

 

Trentham entry Encosta Larrocha (Verry) had early use of the track when covering 1200m in 1:22.8, 1000m in 1:07.6 and 600m in 40.6. Over the same ground Fromelles (Colgan) took 1:23.5, 1:08.2 and 40.6 and Sirani (Colgan) 1:23.4, 1:08.2 and 40.4. They are both likely to run at Ellerslie. Handsome Dan (Brown) ran 1000m in 1:07.8 and 600m in 39.3.

 

On the all-weather Pinot Express (Grylls) and Recording (Goodwin) prepared for Te Rapa on Monday with a smart 1000m in 1:03.8 and 600m in 37.2. Another pair from the Stephen Autridge barn with weekend engagements, Mr Clooney (Grylls) and Allsortsafun (R Jones), cut out 1200m in 1:23.8, 1000m in 1:05.2 and 600m in 37.3.

 

Wisecrack (Bosson), who has his first start since the New Zealand Derby at Te Rapa on Monday, was not extended over 1200m in 1:20.8, 1000m in 1:06.6 and 600m in 39. He is coming to hand well for the Kelsos.

 

Double Take (Kasim) left 1200m behind in 1:25.3, 1000m in 1:10.2 and 600m in 41. Over the same ground Confederate (Grylls) returned 1:26.9, 1:12.2 and 42.8. Staged (O Richardson) was restricted to 1000m in 1:11.2 and 42.4, while Mae Jinx (Moody) returned 1:13 and 42.8.

 

On the sand Master Guru (M Brosnan) and Rose Of Falkirk (R Jones) were paired in sound work over 1200m in 1:16.8, 1000m in 1:02 and 600m in 36.6. Apache Sky, another member of the in form Mark Brosnan team, was ridden by her trainer over 1200m in 1:20.6, with the 1000m taking 1:04.2 and the 600m 37.3.

 

Abbey Tralae (Taylor), who is engaged at Ellerslie, showed her customary dash over 800m in 49.8 and 600m in 36.5. Seal (K Hillis) and Paradise Chief (Taylor) cut out 1000m in 1:03.2 and 600m in 37, while Beautiful Brother (S Collett) and Straight Furrow (Swann) clocked 1:03.6 and 38.7.

 

Over the same ground Armadio Estrada (K Hillis) took 1:04.2 and 38.3, Costello (Bosson) and a Duelled gelding (Wratten) recorded 1:03.6 and 38.7, and Good Thinker (Sharahima) and a Thorn Park colt (S Collett) 1:05.9 and 37.9.

 

Royal Excuse (McFetridge) was not pushed to run 1000m in 1:10.5 and 42.6, Miss Sharapova (Coleman) took 1:14.3 and 42.4, and Dickens (Russell) 1:15.8 and 44.6.  

Dawn Ghost, Seaflyte and Montjee underlined their fitness for Saturday’s Rotorua Plate when they galloped stylishly at Matamata this morning.

 

Working 18m out on the course proper, which was slow after heavy overnight rain, Dawn Ghost (Colgan) had pace on throughout 1200m in 1:20.7, 1000m in 1:06.5 and 600m in 38.5. The John Sargent-trained mare performed with credit for sixth behind Jimmy Choux at Hastings last week and will be better suited dropping back to handicap grade in the Rotorua feature.

 

Race rival Seaflyte (W Hillis) appeared to enjoy his work over 1200m in 1:26.5, with his last 1000m in 1:11.3 and 600m in 41.4, time that he could have improved upon had he been asked by his co-trainer. Seaflyte finished one place behind Dawn Ghost at Hastings and is another that will be better off under Saturday’s conditions.

 

Montjee (Kasim) prepared for the Rotorua Plate with solid work over 1200m in 1:20.6, 1000m in 1:06.2 and 600m in 38.9. He had no problem with the slow ground and will come further into contention if the wet weather continues through to the weekend.

 

Demophon (Lui) turned in a sound trial for Rotorua when paired with promising maiden Virginia Wade (Verry) over 800m in 51.2 and the final 600m in a smart 37.7. Talented three-year-old Golden Globe (S Collett) was travelling strongly alongside Miss Danni (Swann) at the end of their work, with the last 600m in 38.7.

 

Two more for Rotorua, Danrose (M Brosnan) and Toma Valea (P Ormsby), left 1000m behind in 1:05.4 and 600m in 39.4, while Handsome Dan (R Jones) returned 1:07.6 and 39.5. Better Together (Mullineaux) and St Mark (Leveque), entries for Pukekohe on Friday, were kept up to their work over 1200m in 1:20.6, 1000m in 1:06.4 and 600m in 39.5. Corporal Lance (Barnabas) covered the same ground in 1:21.2, 1:07.8 and 39.6.

 

On the all-weather track, Rotorua feature sprint candidate Vincent Mangano (P McKay) was partnered by Estrato (J McKay) over a smart 1000m in 1:04.2 and 600m in 36.8. Vincent Mangano is in forward condition to kick off another campaign in the Lion Red Plate.

 

Pinot Express (Taylor) turned in a sound trial for Rotorua when working with Paradise Chief (Goodwin) and Seal (Grylls) over 1000m in 1:05.2 and 37.4. Wisecrack (Bosson) and his promising half-sister Quest (Grylls) were paired over 1200m in 1:21.7, with their last 1000m taking 1:06.4 and 600m 38.2. Both are coming to hand well for trainers Bev and Ken Kelso.

 

Fromelles (Mullineaux) and Lights Are Shining (Colgan) took 1:07.6 for 1000m and 39.9 for their last 600m, while Geariguru (S Collett) clocked 1:05.8 and 38.7, Upstream Lad (Grylls) 1:08.2 and 38.4, and Soldier’s Song (T Autridge) 1:06.3 and 37.8.

 

He’s Under The Gun (C Ormsby) worked boldly over ground and was timed over the last 1200m in 1:23.9, 1000m in 1:08.7 and 600m in 38.8. In well held work over 1000m, Donna Marie (Coleman) and El Dorado Sun (O Richardson) returned 1:16.2 and 40.7, Groover (R Jones) 1:12.7 and 43.2, and Connie Be Good (C Ormsby) 1:15.6 and 45.

 

Costello (Bosson) and a Duelled gelding (Wratten) were timed from the 800m in 49.2 and 600m in 36.9, while Voorsitter (Kasim) ran his last 600m in 38.5.

 

Work on the loose sand was limited, but amongst those allowed to stretch out were Chatemup (Dellow), who cut out 1200m in 1:21.4, 1000m in 1:07.5 and 600m in 37.7. The Raconteur (S Collett) was timed over 1000m in 1:10.4, quickening for a final 600m in 37, while Ledecky’s Gold (McFetridge) was restricted to 1:10.8 and 40.8.

Matamata’s quartet of NZB Insurance Spring Classic prospects all satisfied their connections for Saturday’s Hastings feature when they galloped at Matamata this morning.

 

Working 18m out on the course proper, which was dead under a heavy frost, Don Domingo (Sapsworth) impressed in the way he got through 1200m in 1:17.4, maintaining a solid rate over the last 1000m in 1:04.2 and 600m in 38.2. While unproven in weight-for-age company, the Graham Richardson-trained grey has form on the Hastings track and will front up in excellent order on the weekend.

 

Proven weight-for-age performer Red Ruler had his raceday rider Chad Ormsby on board when he and Ying Yang Master (Lui) strode over 1200m in 1:18.3, 1000m in 1:03.9 and 600m in 37.2. The John Sargent-trained gelding looked very comfortable at the end of the gallop and is peaking at the right time.

 

Stablemate Dawn Ghost (Mullineaux) did her Spring Classic work on the all-weather track, where she rounded off striding work with 1200m in 1:18.8, 1000m in 1:05.1 and 600m in 37.8. Matamata’s fourth runner in the big race, the Wayne and Vanessa Hillis-trained Seaflyte (Grylls), was partnered by Ballynova (Lammas) over a solid 1200m in 1:19.6, 1000m in 1:05.9 and 600m in 38.4.

 

Seaflyte appears to have trained on well from his close second at Hastings last week, while Ballynova, a member of the in-form Glenn Old stable, will be shooting for a hat-trick at Hastings.

 

Back on the course proper, Kaptain Kirkup (Coleman) and Fly Silca Fly (Grylls) prepared for Hastings with dashing work over 1200m in 1:16.5, 1000m in 1:02.2 and 600m in 37.8. Over the same ground Burgundy (McDonald) and Miss Thorn (Shirahama) returned 1:22.3, 1:06.2 and 39. Burgundy has made a good recovery from the foreleg cut he suffered in his winning debut and will return to Taupo next week, when he will be ridden by James McDonald due to the race being confined to apprentice riders.

 

Banchee (Colgan) worked away steadily to cover 1200m in 1:21.9, gathering momentum over the last 1000m in 1:04.8 and hitting the line strongly after a final 600m in 38.4. Sir Royal (Lui) and Chennai (Colgan) caught the eye when preparing for Te Rapa on Sunday with 1000m in 1:02.9 and 600m in 37.4.

 

Green Supreme (McDonald) and Sirrevie (M Gibbs) did sound work over 1000m in 1:04.4 and 600m in 38, while Lady Istidaad (Burton) and Que Sera (Barnabas) recorded a smart 1:03.3 and 37.5. Hawke’s Bay candidate Kashin Girl (Wilson) and Te Rapa runner Dadzadreamer (Sapsworth) cut out 1200m in 1:18.6, 1000m in 1:04.3 and 600m in 38.

 

Planex (Wilson), who will have his first start since returning from Hong Kong at Pukekohe on Friday, strode over 1200m in 1:24.6, with his last 1000m in 1:09.2 and 600m in 40.2. Mr Spock (C Ormsby) was timed over his last 800m in 50.5 and 600m in 37.6.

 

On the sand, which was in good order, Peter McKay’s Hawke’s Bay Guineas duo Antonio Lombardo (J McKay) and Estrato (P McKay) were well matched over 1000m in 1:03.2 and 600m in 37.5. The pair of last start winners are in good condition for the three-year-old feature.

 

Stablemate Thundermore (Wratten) was in brilliant form over 1000m in 1:02.4, the final 600m in 36.5. He is capable of a bold fresh-up run at Hastings. Polarity (Brett) and Thrive (Smiley) were matched in sound work over 1200m in 1:18.2, 1000m in 1:04.4 and 600m in 37.9. Last start winner Polarity returns to Taupo next Thursday, while Thrive may start at Te Rapa on Sunday.

 

Cool Cruising (S Tata) was another to do smart work on the sand, with 1000m in 1:02.5. Fog prevented a 600-metre sectional time. St Moritz (Leveque) and Demophon (Mullineaux) left 1200m behind in 1:20.4, 1000m in 1:03.8 and 600m in 50.6.

 

Heza Rebel (Lammas), who runs at Tauranga this Thursday, covered 1200m in 1:19.2 and 1000m in 1:05.6, with fog again affecting the timing. La Tourneau (Lui) and Lights Are Shining (Woollams) prepared for Te Rapa with 800m in 51.8 and 600m in 36.2.

 

Promising three-year-old Jetset Man (Cameron) was travelling well alongside Mayhem Magic (Edmeads) at the end of 1200m in 1:18.7, 1000m in 1:04.4 and 600m in 38.2. Viking Ace (H McQuade) covered the same ground in 1:21.6, 1:06.4 and 40, while Beautiful Brother (S Collett) took 1:19.4, 1:03.8 and 37.2, and Dixie Run (Sliz) and Magic Epic (Kasim) 1:23.6, 1:08.2 and 40.3.

 

On the all-weather track Mercury Mistress (Dowling) and Saw Her Walkin By (McDonald) cut out 1000m in 1:02.4 and 600m in 36.9. Hype (Arumugam) was timed over 800m in 52.7 and 600m in 38.4, while Storm Patrol (Joseph) and Revelator (C Ormsby) took 55.3 and 41.7.

 

Confederate (Grylls) was not after time over 1200m in 1:26.6 and 600m in 42.8 and stablemate Magic Briar (Coleman) strolled over 1000m in 1:14.2 and 600m in 43.2. She is close to going to the trials.

 

Other gallops: 1200m sand: Medici (McDonald) 1:26, 40.2; Savvy Dancer (O Richardson) 1:28.8, 43.9; Pinaz (Barnabas) 1:25.4, 43; Jules Verne (Cameron) 1:26, 43.8.

 

1000m sand: Sharp Decision (Shirahama) and Ocean Park (S Collett) 1:06.3, 37.7; Chaparral Lass (Lammas) 1:08.3, 40.2; Lord Roberto (Cameron) 1:09.7, 41.2; Excuse Me Madam (Browne) 1:12.2, 42.8; Northern General (Edmeads) 1:15.5, 45.2; Academy Royale (Brett) 1:13.6, 44.

 

800m sand: The Raconteur (S Collett) and Donna Rules (K Price) 55.6, 38.4; Nola Wood (Russell) 1:02.8, 44.2.

Baby Guinness and Golden Globe looked the part for Saturday’s Taranaki “Xtreme Raceday” when they worked in dashing style at Matamata this morning.

 

Galloping 25m out on a heavy course proper, Baby Guinness (Sliz) held an early lead over Golden Globe (S Collett) on the way to running 1000m in 1:07.2, finishing together after a final 600m in 39.6. It was smart work by both horses in the conditions. Baby Guinness is in good order to resume in the R80 sprint at New Plymouth, while Golden Globe is a form runner in the three-year-old 990-metre event.

 

Wai Not (Lammas), another heading to New Plymouth, and Ready Steady (O’Sullivan) were paired in sound work over 1200m in 1:27.4, quickening from the 1000m in 1:08.2 and 39.3 for the final section. Ready Steady is in forward condition to resume in three-year-old stakes company at Ellerslie on Saturday.

 

Justagem (Lui) drew attention to her fresh-up prospects at Rotorua on Sunday when she led Ellerslie candidate Dollario (Mullineaux) at the end of 1000m in 1:07.4 and 600m in 39.4. The Muffin Man (Arumugam) handled the conditions better than Sterling Prince (W Hillis) over 1200m in 1:22.3, 1000m in 1:09 and 600m in 41.8. The Muffin Man is likely to start at Ellerslie.

 

Ellerslie open stayers’ candidate Montjee (Coleman) maintained an even rate over 1200m in 1:21.6, 1000m in 1:07.2 and 600m in 40.2. Sand Jewell (M Brosnan) and Avoca Ruler (P Ormsby) covered the same ground in 1:22.8, 1:08.2 and 41.9, while Genaffair (Gartner) and Heads Up (Dowling) recorded 1:23.8, 1:09.2 and 41.7, and Sircross (Kasim) and Miss Upstart (Sapsworth) 1:19.5, 1:06.3 and 40.6.

 

New Plymouth entrant Miss Danni (S Collett) left 1200m behind in 1:20.5, with the last 1000m in 1:05.7 and 600m in 40.4. Insignificant (Sliz) did long work and was timed over the last 1200m in 1:29.4 and 600m in 43.7. He is putting together a solid formline over hurdles and gets another opportunity at the Rotorua-Bay of Plenty Hunt meeting on Sunday.

 

On the sand promising maiden Curtain Raiser (Joseph) prepared for Rotorua with a soundly run 1200m in 1:18.3, 1000m in 1:04.5 and 600m in 38.5.

 

Champagne Girl (Coleman) stretched out well over the final stages of 1000m in 1:11.4 and 600m in 38.8. Vincent Mangano (P McKay) and Lozada (Wratten) were also travelling strongly at the end of their work over 800m in 55.8 and 600m in 40.2, while Ellerslie candidate Art Beat (K Hillis) was timed from the 600m in 39.8.

 

Rio Moral (H McQuade) had a solid hitout over 1200m in 1:19.8, 1000m in 1:05.9 and 600m in 38.7. Over 1000m Geariguru (Joseph) and Beautiful Brother (S Collett) recorded 1:04.2 and 38.5, Coffee Club (Lammas) 1:09.2 and 40.8, Mae Jinx (Coleman) 1:06.2 and 38.7, Shelley Bee (H McQuade) 1:06.2 and 38.7, and Beauty Perception (Lammas) 1:06.2 and 38.6.

 

On the all-weather track Pinot Express (Taylor) and Abagale (Goodwin) cut out 1000m in 1:02.8 and 600m in 36.2. Vincent Street (Grylls) and Armadio Estrada (K Hillis) ran the same trip in 1:09.3 and 40.7, while Claws Are Out (Grylls) took 1:10.2 and 39 and Wisecrack (K Jones) 1:14.4 and 44.5

Largo Da Barra and Orutan prepared for Hastings on Saturday with impressive work together at Matamata this morning.

 

Galloping 18m out on a slow course proper, Largo Da Barra (Mullineaux) and Orutan (Lui) were well matched over 1000m in 1:06.2, with the final 600m in 38.2. Even allowing that the work took place early in the session before the ground cut up, it was good work by the John Sargent-trained pair.

 

Largo Da Barra has trained on well from his first-up win late last month and will be ridden by Vinny Colgan in the Hawke’s Bay Guineas, while Sam Spratt is booked for Orutan for her reappearance in the Gold Trail Stakes. 

 

Race rival Queen Boudicca (Colgan) was partnered by The Raconteur (S Collett) over 800m in 53.2 and 600m in 38.6. Little went Queen Boudicca’s way on the first day at Hastings and it would not surprise to see her turn that form around.

 

Windsor Park Plate candidate Atom Cat (Wilson) had the measure of Get The Message (Sapsworth) at the end of solid work over 1200m in 1:18.5, the last 1000m in 1:03.1 and 600m in 39.6. Our Ella Belle (Ritchie) prepared for the R90 1400 at Hastings with 1000m in 1:07.3 and 600m in 39.6.

 

Cracker (O’Sullivan) and Pinaz (Blair) ran good time over 1000m in 1:06 and 600m in 38.1. Cracker is likely to head south for the Canterbury Belle Stakes at Riccarton Saturday, while her stablemate runs at Te Rapa on Friday.

 

Two more for Te Rapa, Ying Yang Master (Coleman) and Yourein (Colgan), left 1200m behind in 1:20.9, 1000m in 1:06.1 and 600m in 38.7. Later in the session Seaflyte (Hillis) and Generous Type (Boyack) did well over the same distance in 1:21.4, 1:07.5 and 41.2, while Don Domingo (Sapsworth) returned 1:20.4, 1:07.1 and 41.4. Seaflyte and Don Domingo are likely to clash in the open stayers’ event at Hastings.

 

Condescender (C Ormsby), a runner at Pukekohe on Sunday, worked with Te Rapa entry Two Ticks (Kasim) over a sound 1000m in 1:08.2 and 600m in 39.9. Over the same ground Gunna (Russell) and Delaman (C Ormsby) clocked 1:08.6 and 41, Shahbab (O Richardson) 1:08.2 and 39.9, Rose Of Falkirk (M Brosnan) and Sharp ’N’ Fast (P Ormsby) 1:06.8 and 39, and Danrose (P Ormsby) 1:07.7 and 39.6. She will run in the Gold Trail Stakes only if the track softens.

 

Ledecky’s Girl (Grylls) and Zardetto (Colgan) maintained an even rate over 1200m in 1:21.6, 1000m in 1:07.3 and 600m in 40.4. Loviste (Lammas) appeared to manage the conditions better than Medici (Dowling) over the same distance in 1:20.5, 1:06.3 and 39.2.

 

Others over ground included Crown Of Thorns (Moody) and Savvy Dancer (O Richardson), who returned 1:20.8, 1:05.5 and 39.8; Keepa Lady (Grylls) and Dixie Run (Sliz) 1:21.6, 1:07.2 and 39.4; and Beauty Avanti (Gartner) and Beauty Humour (Wong) 1:23.2, 1:07.4 and 39.8.

 

Wai Not (Lammas) and a Perfectly Ready filly (S Collett) took 1:08.9 and 40.8 over 1000m, while Amadagio (Dowling) and Crystal Heights (Lammas) clocked 1:08.3 and 40.2. Beautiful Brother (S Collett) ran from the 800m in 53 and, with the last 600m in 39.6, and Western Treasure (Shirahama) followed in 54.3 and 41.2.

 

On the all-weather track Allsortsafun (R Jones) and Mr Clooney (Goodwin) ran a smart trial for Te Rapa over 1000m in 1:02.8, the final 600m in 36.4. Art Beat (K Hillis), who runs next at Ellerslie on Saturday week, was not extended over the same ground in 1:05.4 and 38.8, while Whitby (Goodwin) took 1:08.4 and 37.2.

 

On the sand, which was not conducive to fast times, Master Guru (M Brosnan) and Toma Valea (P Ormsby) did well to record 1:19.8 over 1200m, with the last 1000m in 1:02.6 and 600m in 36.4.

 

Estrato (P McKay) and Quintero (J McKay) wasted no time over 1000m in 1:03.4 and 600m in 36.8, St Moritz (Colgan) clocked 1:06.7 and 38.4, Gay Guru (S Collett) and Black Rocks (Murray) took 1:08 and 39.2, and Dollario (Colgan) 1:05.6 and 37.8.

 

Sand Jewell (Kasim) covered 1200m in 1:20.2, the last 600m in 39.6, while Thundermore (Wratten) stretched out well over 800m in 50.4 and 600m in 37. In easy work over 1000m, Magic Reilly (Barnabas) clocked 1:12.8 and 43.5, Golden Globe (S Collett) and Miss Danni (Joseph) 1:12.3 and 41.2, Gimme A Flyer (Russell) 1:13.5 and 41.8, Lady Burlesque (O’Sullivan) 1:14.6 and 41.8, and Beauty Perception (Wong) and a Pentire gelding (Lammas) 1:12 and 40.8.

Shanghai Bund prepared for the Northland Breeders’ Stakes at Ruakaka on Saturday with a bold gallop at Matamata this morning. 

 

Working 22m out on a dead course proper, Shanghai Bund (Coleman) was partnered by Cathay Lady (Lui) over 1000m in 1:03.4, finishing off with 600m in 36.6. It was very good work by both horses. Shanghai Bund was scratched from his season debut at Hastings last week after becoming cast in his box. He looks set for a big fresh-up run in the new three-year-old stakes race at Ruakaka, while Cathay Lady, an Exceed And Excel filly who has shown trials form, makes her debut at New Plymouth on Sunday.

 

Spare A Fortune (S Collett) underlined his fitness for the Merial Mile at Awapuni when he led Princess Kyoto (Russell) to the end of 1200m in 1:19.7, 1000m in 1:04.7 and 600m in 37.4. In fairness to Princess Kyoto, she set off several lengths behind her companion and still hit the line well.

 

Spare A Fortune, last year’s Merial Mile winner, has been freshened since returning from the Grand National meeting and shaped up with a sound third at the Te Teko trials last week.

 

Antonio Lombardo (J McKay) covered 1200m in 1:22.8, picking up the tempo for a final 1000m in 1:05.3 and 600m in 39.2. Last season’s leading male juvenile won the second of two recent trials and is in forward condition to resume at Ruakaka.

 

Ying Yang Master (Leveque) and Yourein (Waddell) were paired in solid work over 1200m in 1:18.5, 1000m in 1:03.9 and 600m in 37.9. Over the same ground King’s Consul (Brett) and Polarity (Cameron) returned 1:20.2, 1:04.8 and 38.8, while Awapuni entrant Fromelles (Mullineaux) left 1000m behind in 1:05.7, the final 600m in 38.2.

 

Last start winner Largo Da Barra (Colgan) was not extended over 1000m in 1:08.8 and 600m in 39.5. He will head to Hastings next week in the countdown to spring three-year-old features.

 

On the sand, Henri Jayer (Coleman) underlined his Ruakaka prospects with smart work over 1200m in 1:19.7, 1000m in 1:03.9 and 600m in 37.2. Straight Furrow (S Collett) maintained a solid gallop over the same ground in 1:17.8, 1:04.5 and 38.6, while Rose Of Falkirk (R Jones) took 1:21.2, 1:06.9 and 39.8.

 

Insignificant (Sliz), who bounced back to form over hurdles at Paeroa last week, looked ready for another bold effort at Foxton on Thursday when he covered 1200m in 1:23.8, 1000m in 1:08.9 and 600m in 40.4.

 

Von Snitzel (Brett) was not pushed over 1000m in 1:07.2 and 600m in 38.2, while stablemate Minqar Qaim (Cameron) returned 1:10.5 and 41. He looks solid in the early stages of a new preparation.

 

Phar Lass (O’Sullivan) and the Thorn Park-Monica Hall filly (Barnabas) covered 1000m in 1:10.4, the last 600m in 41.2. Over 1200m Xalted (Moody) returned 1:27.8 and 40.8, Authentic (Cameron) 1:26.7 and 41.1, Don Domingo (Sapsworth) 1:27.2 and 44.3, and Italian Princess (Wilson) 1:32.3 and 46.4.

 

On the all-weather track, last start winner Pinzee (Turner) worked away quietly from the 1000m mark to run that distance in 1:08.3, quickening for a smart final 600m in 36.6.

 

So Regal (Colgan) caught the eye with 1200m in 1:19.2, 1000m in 1:04.4 and 600m in 36.8. Cannymac (Grylls) ran the same trip in 1:20.8, 1:06.5 and 38.2.

 

Ledecky’s Girl (Grylls) took 1:05.8 for 1000m and 38.6 for the final 600m, High Heels (P Ormsby) clocked 1:05.8 and 38.6, while Confederate (K Jones) and Won’t Lie Down (Coleman) took 1:06.2 and 38.2.

 

Magic Briar (K Jones) appeared to enjoy her work over 800m in 55.6 and 600m in 40.2, while Wisecrack (K Jones) took 54 and 38.9.