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.
Former champion stallion Savabeel, who passed away at his Waikato Stud home base in June this year, showed what a loss he has been to the local breeding industry thanks to two impressive winners early in the day at Matamata.
Top class mare Qali Al Farrasha added a second stakes victory to her impressive career record when she burst clear in the concluding stages to win the Gr.3 Grangewilliam Stud Taranaki Breeders Stakes (1400m) with consummate ease.
