Blistering start to the New Year
The weather may be iffy but it has been a blistering holiday period for Go Racing runners in Group races.
Kicking off on Boxing Day, the dynamic duo of Ruud Not Too and jockey Danielle Johnson pulled off the first leg of a valuable double, winning the Rising Stars Final worth $80,000 and completing this with the Group 2 Rich Mile on New Year’s Day worth $100,000.
Says Albert, “It was a shocking barrier draw for the Rising Stars Final but brilliant riding and the horse’s natural ability really shone on the day. On the strength of that performance we were confident to nominate for the Rich Hill Mile and that paid off in spades. Her owners are thrilled!”
Gutsy little Hasahalo (Savabeel x Halloween) made a great start to her New Year’s resolutions by winning the Group 3 Eclipse Stakes worth $70,000. Says trainer Stephen McKee, “We knew she had the ability. She’s now the favourite for the Karaka Million which is an absolute thrill for her syndicate, many of whom are new to the racing game.They are living the dream!”
Finally, six-year-old seasoned campaigner Seize the Moment won the $70,000 Group 3 Anniversary on the 14th of January securing the quinella in that race for Go Racing trainer Stephen Marsh.
Says Albert, “We couldn’t have asked for a better way to start 2017 and the excitement just keeps coming down in Wellington.”
Go Racing has five runners at Trentham on Saturday including an impressive three lining up in the Group 1 Telegraph worth $250,000 – Mighty Solomon, Passing Shot and No More Tears.
Mighty Solomon has only had one run in last 12 months but has been freshened right up and the speed being on will suit. Kelly McCulloch will ride who has won on him before and he is in well at the weights.
Passing Shot, while very fast, has been out of form but has been gelded now and that could be the key for him. He certainly has the ability.
No More Tears was very unlucky in the Group1 Railway over the same distance and should have run in top five. Unfortunately she’s drawn the outside barrier and wants some rain to be a genuine winning chance.
The following weekend in the capital a minimum of two Go Racing runners compete in Group 1 Thorndon Mile – Ruud Not Too and Seize the Moment while a decision on Mighty Solomon’s participation will be made on Saturday.
Says Albert, “To have multiple runners in these Group Races is the next step up for Go Racing. It is going to be a very exciting time for our owners.”