Trainer Kris Shailer has confirmed that his exciting three-year-old Justin Case will bypass next month’s Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton in favour of stakes targets closer to home.
Excitement is building at Te Akau Racing’s Riccarton barn as New Zealand Cup Week draws nearer, with the stable once again holding a strong hand at their home meeting on Saturday.
Te Akau looks to have another strong hand in the upcoming Gr.1 features for the 3YOs at Riccarton next month with Asturia laying down a challenge to all Gr.1 Barneswood Farm New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) candidates.
Underrated mare Rareza showed just how potent she can be when she gets a run to suit as she stormed home from near last to take out the open 1200m contest at Otaki, the Vets on Riverbank Handicap (1200m).
Waitak edged Tuxedo in another thrilling finish at Hastings on Saturday, claiming his fifth career Group One victory in the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m).
Progressive mare Astoria Brooke claimed her first victory at black-type level when she burst through the middle of a crowded pack with 100m to run to score in the Listed Fairview Matamata Kaimai Stakes (1600m) at Matamata.
