Underthemoonlight left no doubts about her fitness for Rotorua on the weekend when she galloped impressively at Matamata this morning.

Working on the sand later in the session when fog affecting early timing had cleared, Underthemoonlight cut out 1000m under a strong hold from her trainer Karyn McQuade. She was timed over the distance in 1:03.4 and the final 600m in 37.8, indicating that was at peak for her rescheduled assignment in the Rotorua Stakes on Sunday.

Most other horses with weekend engagements galloped on the course proper, where the ground 18 metres out was at the far end of the slow range. Tavis Star (Fawcett) caught the eye as she prepared for her fresh-up run at Te Rapa on Saturday, shading Corporate Missile (Leveque) at the end of 1000m in 1:07.9 and 38.9.

Te Rapa entries Babe (Gorham) and Mahalo (Tynan) had pace on from the start of their hitout over 1000m, recording 1:06.4 and 39.8 for the final 600m. Suffire (Coleman) prepared for Te Rapa with sound work over 1000m in 1:06.7 and 39, while Rotorua candidate Save The Stars (S Weatherley) returned 1:06.8 and 39.2.

Last-start Te Rapa winner Galaxy Miss (Dowling) looked well as she strolled over 1200m in 1:32.2, 1000m in 1:13.4 and 600m in 41.8. Keep On Coming (Coleman) impressed with the way she completed her work ahead of Te Rapa with 1200m in 1:25.5, 1:08.6 and 39.2.

Rainbow Song (C Grylls) and Divine Duke (S Weatherley) cut out 1000m in 1:08.8 and 39.8, De Chine (C Grylls) took 1:07.6 and 40, while Esprit de Corps (Miller) and Abbey Kay (Pinn) returned 1:07.5 and 39.2.

Te Rapa candidates Pacquiao (Tynan) and Fame Seeker (Fraser-Hayes) were paired in good work over 1200m in 1:21.5, 1:07.1 and 40.3. The Boy Wonder (C Grylls) and Avec Moi (S Weatherley) took 1:09.3 and 38.1 over 1000m, while Foreigner (Miller) was well held over the same ground in 1:11.8 and 40.

On the all-weather track, Valante (S McKay) and Perfectly Ready gelding (P McKay) were paired over 1000m in 1:03.2 and 37. On the sand Claydon (M Brosnan) covered 1000m in 1:07.7 and 40.2, while over the same ground Miss Horotiu (Coleman) was kept to 1:11.2, with restricting her final section to 56.8 for 800m.

Dame Margot Fonteyn and Fashionably underlined their fitness for the Wellfield New Zealand Oaks with impressive work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping against the rail in the 2.5-metre position on a heavy course proper, Dame Margot Fonteyn (Fawcett) and Fashionably (Lammas) set off over ground and built to a solid clip to run 1200m in 1:18.7, 1000m in 1:04.5 and the final 600m in a deceptive 36.7. The Autridge/Richards stablemates are in excellent order for the fillies’ classic.

All other work on the course proper took place at the 20-metre position, where Auckland Cup candidate Mister Impatience (D Weatherley) was unextended over the last 1200m of his hitout in 1:28.7, 1:12.5 and 40.9. The proven stayer is in good order for Thursday’s Ellerslie feature.

New Zealand Oaks entry Dreamcrafter (Coleman) led Saint Finn (C Grylls) to the end of 1200m in 1:224, 1:08.7 and 41.4. She looks bright but a decision has yet to be made whether she will take her place at Trentham.

Smashing (Lammas) prepared for the feature sprint at Trentham when she and Sassy ’N’ Smart (Leveque) cut out 1000m in 1:08.5 and 38.9. Aotearower (McNab), who heads south for Saturday’s Cuddle Stakes, also impressed in her work over 1200m in 1:22.2, 1:07.8 and 39.9.

Mary Quant (Coleman) was in good form ahead of her Te Rapa engagement over 1200m in 1:23.8, 1:11.2 and 39.7. Royal Success (C Grylls) and Alamosa Express (McNab) were timed over 1000m in 1:09.2 and 39.2, while Sarabande (Newman) ran the same trip in 1:08.2 and 40.9, Strada Cavallo (Fraser-Hayes) took 1:06.5 and 41.2, and Ali Baba (Coleman) 1:09.4 and 40.2.

New Zealand St Leger entry Hot In High Heels (Tierney) had early use of the track when she strode over 1200m in 1:22.4, 1:07.3 and 40.2, while Wellington Guineas candidates Secret Stash (Tynan) and Babe (Gorham) covered the same distance in 1:23.5, 1:07.1 and 40.9.

New Zealand Oaks runner Incantesimo (McNab) was paired with Te Aroha Friday entry All Razzle Dazzle (Gorham) over 1200m in 1:22.3, 1:08.5 and 41.2. Also over ground, Piazza (S Weatherley) was timed to run her last 1200m in 1:24.3, 1:08.5 and 40.5, while Keep On Coming (Coleman) took 1:24.5, 1:09.2 and 40.6, and Saffron Lady (Lammas) 1:23.3, 1:08.7 and 40.

Our King Sway (A Jones), who will now go direct to the Japan-NZ Trophy at Tauranga after his Ellerslie race was scrapped, enjoyed his work over 1000m in 1:07.4 and 40.4. Over the same ground Good Vibes (Miles) and La Vamos (P Brosnan) returned 1:10.2 and 40.6, Alakazam (Tiaki) 1:08.8 and 40.2, and Arraignment (S Weatherley) 1:10.2 and 40.9.

Ruby Armani (D Weatherley) was well held over 1200m in 1:27.6, 1:12.8 and 40.2, while Temple Tiger (Fawcett) and Clovelly Park (Bourke) ran in from the 800m in 52.5 and 38.8.

On the all-weather track Tatters (M Grylls) and Wide Awake (Leveque) looked sharp for upcoming engagements as they reeled off 1000m in 1:01.7 and 36.5.

Wellington Guineas entry Danger Dee (J McKay) was paired with Tatty Bogler (S McKay) over an easy 1000m in 1:08.9 and 39. Eprouvez (Fraser-Hayes) ran the same distance in 1:08.2 and 39.4, while Amarula (P McKay) and Al Pacino (S McKay) were timed over 800m in 54.5 and 38.

On the sand High Distinction (S Collett) and Le Petite Rouge (Danis) prepared for the weekend with 1000m in 1:07.2 and 37.8. Arabian Duke (K McQuade) wasn’t after time over 1000m in 1:11.3 and 40.2. 

Gold Fever and Melody Belle looked cherry ripe for Saturday’s Sistema Stakes when they were paired in impressive work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on the plough with their respective raceday riders Cameron Lammas and Michael McNab on top, Gold Fever and Melody Belle were well matched over 1000m in 1:03.7 and quickened readily to cut out their final 600m in 35.8. The Autridge/Richards-trained fillies are both in excellent order for the first Group One two-year-old feature of the autumn.

Their O’Sullivan/Scott-trained rivals Summer Passage (C Grylls) and Princess Rihanna (S Weatherley) also acquitted themselves well, finishing together over 1000m in 1:03.8 and 36.6.

Mister Impatience (D Weatherley) prepared for his Auckland Cup assignment on the course proper, where the going was good 20 metres out. He cantered away from the 2000-metre mark, building momentum as he went, and was timed over the last 1200m in 1:24.3, 1000m in 1:08.6 and hit the line strongly with a final section in 38.5. He has trained on well from his Avondale Cup placing.

The only other to work on the course proper was Westbury Classic entry Ruby Armani (Coleman), who strode over 1200m in 1:23.5, 1:07.5 and 38.2.  

Back on the plough Sound Proposition (Coleman) looked bright as he prepared for the Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes with a solid 1200m in 1:17.9, 1:03.2 and 36.3. Stablemate Gentil Tonton (C Grylls) did similar work over the same ground in 1:18.9, 1:03.7 and 37.  Forecast rain will aid his cause in the Auckland Cup.

Latin Rose (McNab) and Tatters (Bosson) were in good form for Ellerslie as they left 1200m behind in 1:19.8, 1:04.2 and 36.7, while Clarify (P McKay) and Al Pacino (S McKay) did well over 1000m in 1:02.3 and 35.8.

Wildflower (C Grylls) prepared for Ellerslie as she and Four Degrees (Fraser-Hayes) cut out a smart 1200m in 1:15.3, 1:02 and 36.4. Clovelly Park (Bourke), another for Ellerslie, was paired with Shameless (Danis) over 1000m in 1:05.8 and 36.2.

Sasanof’s Hero (Newman) prepared for next week’s South Waikato meeting at Matamata with bold work over 1200m in 1:16.8, 1:02.3. Also over ground, She’s Prismatic (J Price) returned 1:23.2, 1:08 and 40.3, Brilliant Magic (Wright) 1:26.8, 1:10.2 and 39;8, Grazia (Leveque) 1:28, 1:11.4 and 42.2.

Aotearower (Wratten) was let off with three-quarter-pace work over 1200m in 1:30.4 and 44.5, as was stablemate Cote d’Or (Wratten) in 1:30.2 and 44.

Over 1000m Dezignator (R Jones) took 1:06.7 and 39.2, Arabian Duke (A Jones) 1:10.6 and 41.5, Vincent Street (Danis) 1:07.5 and 38.6, Ballychine (Hepi) 1:11.8 and 41.3, Star Struck (Olney) 1:11.3 and 40.9, Panella (Grant) 1:1.8 and 41.6, and Foreigner (Miller) 1:14.6 and 43.2.

Vodafone New Zealand Derby-bound stablemates Gingernuts and Beaumarchais underlined their fitness for Saturday’s classic with sterling work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on the plough, Gingernuts (Lammas) set off over ground slightly ahead of Beaumarchais (McNab) and the pair worked up together to complete 1200m in 1:17.2, with the last 1000m in 1:02.7 and 600m in 36.3. Gingernuts has trained on pleasingly from his upset Avondale Guineas win, while Beaumarchais, currently on the borderline of a start, adds further strength to the Autridge-/Richards Derby hand.

The O’Sullivan/Scott partnership’s Derby pair Cha Siu Bao and Charles Road were well contained in their work. Cha Siu Bao (S Weatherley) strode through 1200m in 1:19.6, 1:05.3 and 37, while Charles Road (Hutchings) followed in 1:19.3, 1:05.1 and 37.7. Both are fit and well for their weekend assignment.

Ellerslie runners Glass Slipper (C Grylls) and Dame Margot Fonteyn (Lammas) were paired in smart work over 1000m in 1:02.8 and 35.8. Last-start Ellerslie winner Glass Slipper will run in the Mongolian Khan Trophy, while Dame Margot Fonteyn will have her final Oaks lead-up in the Sunline Vase.

Splurge (Miller) was on the bridle throughout 1000m in 1:03.5 and 36.2 as he prepared for the Darley Plate, while stablemates Royal Success (Miller) and Kingsman (McNab) looked in good order for the weekend as they cut out the same trip in 1:04.8 and 36.5.

Auckland Cup entry Perfect Start did well carrying a fair weight in the shape of trainer Wayne Hillis as she prepared for the first day at Ellerslie with 1200m in 1:18.8, 1:02.1 and 36.2. Sunline Vase runner Dreams Of Paris (McNab) was well held over the last 1000m of her work in 1:09.8 and 39.2.

Four Degrees (C Grylls) prepared for Saturday with 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:02.4 and 36.6. Sharp Proposition (Hepi) was well contained over the same ground in 1:29.7, 1:12.5 and 43.6.

Rasa Lila (Ritchie) worked freely over1000m in 1:02.7 and 36.8. Clarify (S McKay) ran the same trip in 1:04.6 and 36.5, while Galaxy Miss (C Grylls) wasn’t extended to record 1:09.4 and 39.8.  

Two-year-olds with feature race engagements on their home track this weekend were the centre of attention during a busy training session at Matamata this morning.

Galloping against the rail on a dead course proper, Summer Passage (C Grylls) was impressive as he and Miss Foxy Gal (Coleman) cut out 1000m in 1:02, with their final 600m in a smart 35.2.

It was especially good work by Summer Passage, whose clash with highly regarded Cambridge colt Aim Smart in Saturday’s Reid & Harrison Slipper is keenly anticipated. Miss Foxy Gal, who had to undergo a barrier trial after being late scratched recently, is one of three Wexford Stables entries the Gr. 2 Matamata Breeders’ Stakes.

The other two, Princess Rihanna (C Grylls) and Nothin’ On Me (McNab), also got through their work in style with 1000m in 1:02.6 and 35.5. Princess Rihanna was an unlucky fourth in the Karaka Million, while Nothin’ On Me appears to have bounced back well from a below-par effort several weeks ago.

Early Breeders’ Stakes favourite Gold Fever (Bosson) underlined her readiness when she and Slipper entry Summer Monsoon (McNab) were paired over a smart 1000m in 1:02.4 and 600m in 35.6. Gold Fever has made pleasing progress since her recent strong win at Te Rapa, while her stablemate has cleaned up well with a trial two weeks ago.

All other course proper gallops took place 22 metres out, where form runners Irish Moon (S Weatherley) and Princess Kereru (Coleman) looked the part over 1000m in 1:04.7 and 37.5. Irish Moon runs in Saturday’s open sprint and Princess Kereru in the three-year-old 1400.

Smashing (Lammas) drew attention to her open sprint prospects when she led Unfazed (Bosson) at the end of 1000m in 1:06.8 and 38.4. Aotearower (Wratten) impressed in solo work over 1200m in 1:18.2, 1:04.6 and 38.2, while Strada Cavallo (Rastrick) completed her work strongly over 1000m in 1:08.6 and 38.8.

Hushed (Bosson) and Our Abbadean (McNab) strode over 1:20.6, 1:04.8 and 39. Slow tracks kept them at home last weekend and they will now run in the Kaimai Stakes. Race rival Gentil Tonton (C Grylls) completed long work with 1200m in 1:24.8, 1:09.2 and 38.4, while Piazza (S Weatherley) followed in a sound 1:24.5, 1:09 and 38.2.

Impressive last-start winner Ocean Emperor (Bourke) and Temple Tiger (Danis) were timed over their last 800m in 51 and 37.5. Babe (Gorham) and Secret Stash (Tynan) prepared for the weekend with 1000m in 1:06.6 and a respectable final section in 37.37.3.

Southern visitor Signify (A Jones), who will be entered for Saturday’s open sprint, looked bright when running in from the 800m in 57.2 and 40.4. Rival Red Striker (S Collett) cut out her final 600m in 37.4.

Pure Lorde (Gorham) was paired with Breeders’ Stakes entry Short Fuse (Tynan) over 1000m in 1:05.5 and 37, while Star Ella (A Jones) left 1200m behind in 1:19.9, 1:05.6 and 38.2. Hot In High Heels (S Turner) kept up an even rate over the same distance in 1:17.8, 1:04.2 and 39.

Lucky’s Revenge (P McKay) and Orange Shore (S McKay) were timed over 1000m in 1:08.6 and 38.6 Mr Selfridge (R Jones) and Sharp Proposition (Hepi) had pace on throughout 1000m in 1:04.5 and 37.9.

Makarios (D Weatherley) and Ali Baba (Coleman) cut out 1200m in 1:19.5, 1:05.9 and 38.5. Promising two-year-olds Swing Note (Lammas) and Cousteau (Bosson) were sent over 1000m in 1:06.8 and 38.4.

On the all-weather track Nothing Trivial (Coleman), Watch This Space (Lammas) and Dezignator (Danis) were matched over a brisk 1000m in 1:01.2 and 36.2. 

Nucleonic and Ice Bomb looked sharp for the two-year-old feature at New Plymouth on Saturday when worked stylishly at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on the plough, Nucleonic (Lammas) and Icebomb (McNab) were well matched over 1000m in 1:02.8, finishing off strongly with a final 600m in 36.2. Both Autridge/Richards-trained juveniles have raced just once, Nucleonic for a win at New Plymouth and Icebomb for third at Trentham.

Cote d’Or (Coleman) was in good form ahead of the weekend as she strode over 1200m in 1:19.8, quickening for a final 1000m in 1:03 and 600m in 36. Avondale Cup candidate Perfect Start (Hillis) was paired with Dare Devil (Danis) over a solidly run 1200m in 1:16.8, 1:02.2 and 35.9.

Race rival Hushed (Lammas) went with Avondale Guineas entry Gingernuts (McNab) over 1200m in 1:18, 1:02.6 and 36.2. Stablemate Shocking Luck (Lammas) prepared for the Avondale Guineas with 1200m in 1:16.2, 1:03 and 36.3, while race rival Beaumarchais (Lammas) returned 1:15.9, 1:02.2 and 36.2.

Cha Siu Bao (Biwani) prepared for the Ellerslie three-year-old feature when he and Summer Passage (C Grylls) ran their last 1000m in 1:02 and 600m in 36.1, while yet another for the Avondale Guineas, Charles Road (S Weatherley), strode over 1200m in 1:22.8, 1:05.8 and 36.4.

Ellerslie entries Imperium (McNab) and Dame Margot Fonteyn (Fawcett) left 1200m behind in 1:18.8, 1:03.2 and 36.4. Thailand (Newman) caught the eye over 1000m in 1:01.8 and 35.8, while Clovelly Park (Fawcett) also did smart work ahead of Ellerslie with 1000m in 1:03.2 and 36.5.

Mary Quant (R Jones) was another to cut out 1000m impressively, clocking 1:02.5 and 36.8, while Rotorua visitor Sneaking Darcy (R Jones) took 1:00.4 and 36.6, Whatz Occurring (C Grylls) and Vincent Street (Hillis) 1:02 and 36.2, and Splurge (Miller) 1:04.2 and 36.4.

Taranaki Cup entry Vinevale (Lammas) was paired with Silver Missile (McNab) over 1000m in 1:07.3 and 38.7, while race rival Our Abbadean (K Jones) and Princess Davone (Cole) were well contained over the same ground in 1:10.3 and 39.

Our King Sway (A Jones), another in the Taranaki Cup, went with Star Ella (Coleman) in solid work over 1200m in 1:17.2, 1:02.1 and 35.8.  Over Torque (Grant) and Too Late (A Jones) covered the same distance in 1:20.8, 1:04.5 and 37.8.

On the course proper, which was dead 18 metres out, Mister Impatience (D Weatherley) got through long work in preparation for the Avondale Cup, building momentum to record 1:24.9 for his last 1200m, 1:09.4 for 1000m and 39.8 for the final 600m.

Saffron Lady (D Weatherley), another for Ellerslie, went with Keep On Coming (C Grylls) over 1200m in 1:21.8, 1:06 and 37.3, while Strada Cavallo (Rastrick) travelled up strongly over the same distance in 1:24.8, 1:09.7 and 39.2. Incantesimo (C Grylls) and Mahalo (Tynan) were well matched over 1000m in 1:04.9 and 36.8.

On the all-weather track Lucky’s Revenge (P McKay) and Valante (S McKay) were unextended over 1000m in 1:06.8 and 38.5. Paradise Rock (Leveque), who runs at Gisborne on Sunday, was well held over 1000m in 1:12.2 and 41, while Barcelo (P McKay) and Mercury Rising (S McKay) took 1:10.8 and 39.

Back on the plough, New Plymouth runner Dreamcrafter (Coleman) strode over 1200m in 1:24, with her last 1000m in 1:06.8 and 600m in 37.2. Hot In High Heels (N Turner) ran the same trip in 1:21.6, 1:05.8 and 36.2, while Makarios (Dellow) and The Dash (D Weatherley) took 1:22.4, 1:04.1 and 37.3, and Thoughtful (D Weatherley) 1:29.6 and 41.8.

Over 1000m Amperage (McNab) and Fastnet Fire (Lammas) returned 1:04.9 and 36.8, All The Gold (Fawcett) 1:05.6 and 35.8, Corporate Missile (McNab) and Abloom (Lammas) 1:04 and 36.2, Temple Tiger (Bourke) 1:07.7 and 37.2, and Princess Kereru (Davidson) 1:11.8 and 40.8.

A number of horses with feature race engagements at Te Rapa on the weekend got through their work in style at Matamata this morning.

On the course proper, which was good 18 metres out, Savile Row (Coleman) underlined his fitness for the Herbie Dyke Stakes with a solid hitout over 1200m in 1:18.4. He picked up stablemate Saint Finn (D Weatherley) for the last 1000m in 1:03.2 and 600m in 36.5.

The last-start Levin Classic runner-up hit the line strongly and will be an interesting runner when he steps up to a middle-distance at Te Rapa on his way to the New Zealand Derby.

NRM Sprint candidate Perfect Fit (Coleman) stretched out well to complete a smart solo 1200m in 1:18.8, 1:04.2 and 36.4. After placings in both the Railway and Telegraph, she looks primed for a bold effort over 1400 metres on Saturday.

Unbeaten filly Volpe Veloce (Rastrick) was set her usual race-week task by trainer Graham Richardson, striding over ground and completing a well-contained 1200m in 1:24.3, with the last 1000m in 1:09.6 and 600m in 40. With a record of seven from seven, she will be the centre of attention in her first test beyond 1600 metres in Saturday’s Sir Tristram Fillies’ Classic.

Aotearower (Wratten) drew attention to her weekend prospects with a bold 1200m in 1:16.2, 1:02.9 and 36.8. Mister Impatience (D Weatherley), who runs next in the Avondale Gold Cup on Saturday week, did long work and finished off with a comfortable 1200m in 1:26.8, 1:11.1 and 40.

On the plough Heroic Valour (McNab) prepared for the NRM Sprint when he and Te Rapa two-year-old candidate Gold Fever (Lammas) cut out 1000m in 1:05.5 and hit the line hard after a final 600m in 36.8.

Stablemate Abidewithme (M Grylls) wasn’t put against the clock over 1000m in 1:10.2 and 600m in 41. She looks very bright for what will be her final race in the Herbie Dyke Stakes.

Miss Foxy Gal (Hepi) and Amazing Banker (C Grylls) looked sharp for the Te Rapa two-year-old race when cutting out 800m in 50.4 and 600m in 36.7. Recent fresh-up winner Its Our Showtime (Lammas) indicated she had gone on the right way when paired with Tiffany’s Time (McNab) over 1000m in 1:03.5 and 36.

Red Keep (M Jones) strode over 1200m in 1:19.8, 1:04.7 and 37.4, while Thoughtful (C Grylls) ran the same distance in 1:23.4, 1:07 and 37.5. Madam Monica (McNab) and Spritz (Lammas) were paired over 1200m in 1:21.2, 1:04 and 36.4.

Icing On The Cake (Boyack) and Just For Kicks (M Brosnan) cut out 1000m in 1:07.8 and 38.6, and Shameless (Danis) returned 1:08.6 and 39.8. Viva Las Vegas (D Weatherley) left 1200m behind in 1:26.4, 1:10.2 and 40.6. Ruby Armani (Dellow) was timed over the last 800m of her work in 57.1 and 40.5.

Contessa Belle (Rastrick) was never at top over 1200m in 1:26.2, 1:09.6 and 39, while Sound Proposition (C Grylls) did similar work in 1:25.5, 1:08.6 and 39.1, Cote d’Or (Wratten) took 1:26.4, 1:10.8 and 42.3, and Mistrahma (Gorham) 1:28.2, 1:12.4 and 42.9.

In steady work over 1000m Grazia (Lammas) returned 1:09.6 and 39. 2, and Royal Success (Miller) 1:14.6 and 43.3. 

Hall Of Fame and Shocking Luck looked right on target for Saturday’s Waikato Guineas when they galloped brilliantly together at Matamata this morning.

Working on the plough, Hall Of Fame (Bosson) and Shocking Luck (McNab) worked away from the 1200-metre mark at a solid tempo and built as they went to run the distance in 1:15.3, with the last 1000m in 1:01.3 and 600m in an impressive 35 seconds.

Hall Of Fame has done everything right since his Levin Classic win, while Shocking Luck takes proven middle-distance form into Saturday’s important Derby lead-up.

Cha Siu Bao (C Grylls) also underlined his readiness for the Te Rapa three-year-old feature when paired with Beaumarchais (Miller) over 1200m in 1:15.9, quickening for a final 1000m in 1:00.2 and 600m in an impressive 34.8.

Shez Swanky (P Turner) and Sasanof’s Hero (Newman) did sound work ahead of Te Rapa with 1200m in 1:15.6, 1:01 and 36.2. Over the same distance Mary Quant (C Grylls) returned 1:22.3, 1:07 and 37.1, while Vinevale (Bosson) and Hushed (McNab) took 1:18.4, 1:03.2 and 36, and Le Petite Rouge (S Collett) 1:25.6, 1:09.2 and 39.8.

Los Vargas (Tynan) was keen in the early stages over her gallop over 1000m, cutting out the distance in 1:02.4 and the final 600m in 37. Our Abbadean (McNab) and Tatters (Bosson) reeled off 1000m in 1:02.2 and 36.4, while Princess Davone (Bosson) and Tiffany’s Time (McNab) were well held to return 1:06.3 and 37.6.

Ali Baba (C Grylls) drew attention to his Te Rapa prospects with sound work over 1200m in 1:22, 1:05.5 and 37.1. Stablemate Savile Row (D Weatherley) was let off with striding work, his last 1200m in 1:28.8 and 42.3.

Promising three-year-old High Distinction (S Collett) rolled over 1000m in 1:12.3 and 40.6. He is set to trial next week. Sassy ’N’ Smart (Bosson) and Nucleonic (McNab) had it easy early in their hitout before running in from the 600m in 36.2.

Makarska (Wratten) was kept to an easy 1000m in 1:15.2 and 43.8, while Colour Plus (Wright) took 1:11.2 and 40.6.

On the all-weather track impressive last-start winner Elettra (Wratten) covered 1000m behind in 1:12.5 and 42.4 in preparation for the first day at Te Rapa. 

Unbeaten filly Volpe Veloce was by no means the fastest in training at Matamata this morning but she still left a big impression as she prepared for the Karaka Million meeting at Ellerslie on Sunday.

Galloping 10 metres out on a dead course proper, Volpe Veloce (Rastrick) was set her usual easy assignment, cruising over 1200m in 1:24, with her last 1000m in 1:09.2 and finishing off with 600m in 39.2. The Graham Richardson-trained filly will meet some stern male opposition in the Karaka 3YO Mile but should be cherry ripe to take her record to seven from seven.

Heroic Valour (Bosson), one of those rivals, was paired with Pukekohe Saturday runner Imperium (Miller) in solid work over 1000m in 1:03.2. Heroic Valour has improved for his run at Ellerslie last week.

Karaka Million entries Melody Belle (Bosson) and Iffragal (Lammas) got through sound work over 1000m in 1:04.5 and 600m in 36.5. Race rival Princess Rihanna (S Weatherley) was shaded by Summer Passage (C Grylls) at the end of 1000m in 1:02.7 and 35.8. Even allowing they had early use of the track it was good work, especially by Summer Passage (C Grylls), a Snitzel colt who has won two trials.

Abidewithme (Bosson) prepared for the Thorndon Mile at Trentham on Saturday when he and Up ‘N’ Rolling (S McKay) strode over 1200m in 1:19.8, 1:03.2 and 36.3. Glass Slipper (R Jones) and Mr Selfridge (S Weatherley) did good work over 1000m in 1:02.4 and 36.2.

It’s Our Showtime (McNab) looked ready for a good effort at Pukekohe when leading Smashing (Lammas) to the end of 1000m in 1:02.4 and 35.8. Clovelly Park (Fawcett) had pace on throughout as he prepared for Pukekohe with 1000m in 1:01.9 and 35.9. Over the same ground Summer Monsoon (McNab) and Kingsman (Lammas) returned 1:03.8 and 36, En Soie (C Grylls) and All Razzle Dazzle (Tynan) 1:04.9 and 37, Tatters (McNab) 1:05.5 and 37.5, Secret Stash (Tynan) and Raspberry Sweet (Fraser-Hayes) 1:02.9 and 36.7, and Latin Rose (C Grylls) and Foreigner (Bosson) 1:02.5 and 36.3.

Trentham-bound Splurge (Miller) looked good in solo work over 1000m in 1:04.3 and 36.7, Gold Dreams (Dowling) and Lookatmepins (Danis) took 1:05.8 and 37.1, while Hello M’Lady (K McQuade) and Battle Royal (A Jones) had a solid hitout ahead of Te Teko next Monday with 1200m in 1:15.2, 1:02 and 36.7.

Princess Kereru (C Grylls) and Gentil Tonton (S Weatherley) were paired over 1000m in 1:04.2 and 36.2. Thornhill (Dowling) was well held over the same ground in 1:07.8 and 39.6.

Ellerslie entry Cote d’Or (Wratten) cut out 1200m in 1:16.6, 1:03.4 and 37.8, Strada Cavallo (Rastrick) took 1:22, 1:07.8 and 37.6, and Miss Horotiu (Wratten) 1:19.3, 1:04.1 and 37.2.

On the sand last-start winner Charles Road (S Weatherley) did sound work over 1200m in 1:24.8 and 38.6. Among those to get through three-quarter-pace included Hall Of Fame (McNab) in 1:32.7 and 45.1 as he continued his preparation for the Waikato Guineas.

Cha Siu Bao (C Grylls) and a Red Giant gelding (Hepi) covered 1200m in 1:30 and 45.2, Thailand (Newman) took 1:30.9 and 45.6, and Four Degrees (Rastrick) 1:32.8 and 45.4.

A number of horses with feature race engagements at Trentham on Saturday underlined their fitness with attractive work at Matamata this morning.

Leading Telegraph candidate Perfect Fit took time honours, while race rivals Xtravagant and Irish Moon also caught the eye, along with Wellington Cup runners Mister Impatience, Clarify, Echezeaux and Zambezi Warrior.

Perfect Fit was ridden by her raceday jockey Michael Coleman when sent over 1000m on the all-weather track, cutting out the distance in 1:00.8 and hitting the line with a dazzling final 600m in 34.5. The Ken and Bev Kelso-trained mare has made very pleasing progress since her Railway second.

Stablemate Irish Moon (C Grylls) tracked Perfect Fit for his 1000m hitout, recording 1:01.8 and also finishing off well with a final section in 34.7. Unfortunately he is not certain to make the field for Saturday’s big sprint.

Pre-post Telegraph favourite Xtravagant had race rider Opie Bosson in the saddle as he and stablemate Gingernuts (McNab) cut out 1000m on the plough in 1:02.2 and 35.2. Following the gallop the decision was made to withdraw Xtravagant from the Trentham feature.

Defending Wellington Cup title-holder Mister Impatience (Coleman) worked on the course proper, where the going 12 metres out just had the jar out of it. After warming up on a pacework track, the big bay did interesting work comprising two separate 1200-metre gallops.

In the first he recorded 1:23, with the last 1000m in 1:07.8 and 600m in 39.4. He was slower off the mark next time round, but he finished full of running after 1200m in 1:26.2, 1:08.1 and 39.2.

Clarify, the runaway winner of the Dunstan Stayers’ Final at his last start, looked bright as Shaun McKay took him over two rounds on the plough. After gradually quickening he was timed for the final 1200m in 1:16.3, 1:01.8 and 35.9, finishing the gallop with deceptive ease.

Echezeaux (Lammas) and Zambezi Warrior (Bosson) were paired in sound work as they prepared for the Wellington Cup, cutting out their last 1200m in 1:16.6, 1:01.9 and 35.8. It was particularly good work by Echezeaux, who was strong at the line.

Al Pacino (S McKay) and Barcelo (P McKay) looked in good order for Trentham as they galloped over 1000m in 1:04.2 and 35.9, while Roll The Gold (Fawcett) also looked good over the same distance in 1:02.4 and 35.9. Wildflower (C Grylls) did her Trentham prospects no harm when she and All Razzle Dazzle (Tynan) left 1200m behind in 1:18.5, 1:03.1 and 36.7.

Power Of Patch (Coleman) looked in form for Tauranga on Friday when striding over 1200m in 1:21.6, 1:05.2 and 37.5, while Realta (Fraser-Hayes) and Four Degrees (C Grylls) recorded a smart 1:16.9, 1:02.5 and 36.4. Vanilla Moon (S Weatherley) ran the same distance in 1:22.7, 1:05.9 and 36.6, King Kane (McNab) and Vinevale (Lammas) took 1:21.3, 1:05.8 and 37.6, Gentil Tonton (Hepi) 1:22.6, 1:06.4 and 38.3, Mistrahma (Rastrick) 1:18.4, 1:03.8 and 37.5.

Astrid (Bosson) and Our Abbadean (McNab) prepared for Te Rapa on Sunday with a sound 1000m in 1:02.8 and 36. Princess Rihanna (C Grylls) wore blinkers as she continued her Karaka Million preparation with an easy 1000m in 1:16.1 and 45.2.

Abbey Kay (McNab) and Zavistic (Bosson) cut out 1000m in 1:04.2 and 36. Cote d’Or (Wratten) was well held over the same ground in 1:12.6 and 41.8, while stablemates Miss Horotiu (Wratten) returned 1:12.2 and 42.6 and Makarska (Wratten) 1:10.8 and 40.3.

My Foxy Girl (S Weatherley) and Amazing Banker (C Grylls) ran in from the 800m in 58.2 and 36.9, while Incantesimo (Tynan) had it easy over 1200m in 1:29.5 and 43.2.

On the course proper Ali Baba (Coleman) drew attention to his Trentham prospects when he led Sororia (C Grylls) to the end of 1200m in 1:16.9, with the last 1000m in 1:02.5 and the 600m in an impressive 36.1.

Keep On Coming (S Weatherley) and Thoughtful (Olney) prepared for Te Rapa over 1200m in 1:18.2, 1:03.9 and 37.3.

On the all-weather track Babe (Rastrick) and My Dakota (Tynan) completed 1000m in 1:04.9 and 35.9. Stablemate Volpe Veloce did striding work and was timed over her last 600m in 44.2. The unbeaten filly has freshened up nicely from her Eight Carat Classic win and is on target for the Karaka 3YO Mile on Sunday week.

Volpe Veloce is on target to extend her unbeaten record at Ellerslie on Boxing Day judging by her work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on the course proper, which was dead with the markers out 18 metres, Volpe Veloce was ridden by her regular work rider Craig Rastrick as she strode from the 1200-metre mark in 1:26.2, with the last 1000m in 1:10.8 and final 600m in 40.8.

The Graham Richardson-trained filly, who took her record to five from five in the Eulogy Stakes 10 days ago, never does a lot in training and looks in excellent order for her next big test, the Gr. 2 Eight Carat Stakes.

Race rival Avec Moi (C Grylls) also worked on the course proper, where she and New Plymouth weekend entry Embeya (D Weatherley) cut out 1200m in 1:19.8, 1:05.1 and 39. Another Ballymore Stables pair, Majic El (D Weatherley) and Henley Road (Bourke) prepared for New Plymouth with 1000m in 1:08 and 39.2.

On the plough, which was dead after rain yesterday, Sound Proposition (Coleman) worked well ahead of the Zabeel Classic on Boxing Day when he completed 1200m in 1:23.1, 1:06.9 and 37.2. 

Abidewithme (M Grylls) continued her preparation for the Zabeel Classic with breezy work over 1000m in 1:07.7 and 38. The classy mare will appreciate the step up to 2000 metres in the weight-for-age feature.

Three entries for Monday’s Newmarket Handicap, Snapshot, Los Vargas and Red Striker, all worked well in solo work over 1000 metres. Snapshot (Rastrick) returned 1:06.2 and 37.3, Los Vargas (Rastrick) was kept to 1:09.5 and 38.8, while Red Striker (M Jones) was also well held to record 1:10.2 and 39.8.

Hot In High Heels (Lammas) shaped up pleasingly for the first day at Ellerslie when she and Crackthegoodstuff (S Turner) got through a brisk 1200m in 1:15.8, 1:01.6 and 36.7. Possible Boxing Day runner Capella (Coleman) was keen in her work over 1000m in 1:00.5 and 36.2.

Arraignment (Dowling) and Our King Sway (Lammas) were paired in attractive work over 1000m in 1:04.1 and 37.2. Unfazed (Lammas) and Epic Tale (Fawcett) also did well over the same distance in 1:02.8 and 35.9, while Eight Carat Classic entry Glass Slipper (C Grylls) was not extended to record 1:05.3 and 37.7.

Royal Success (Miller), a form runner for the inaugural Rising Stars Final on Monday, went with Chadsdale (McNab) in well held work over 1000m in 1:07.2 and 39. Tyrone (P McKay) and Rodmar (S McKay) ran the same distance in 1:05.2 and 38.

Two-year-olds Nucleonic (McNab) and Princess Rihanna (C Grylls) were timed over their last 800m in 55.2 and 39.6. Another form runner for Ellerslie, Barnaby (S McKay), and Bachro (Yanigeda) returned 49.8 and 37.5 for their last 800m.

Cool Running (K McQuade) had pace on throughout 1200m in 1:17.2, 1:02.8 and 37.8, while Mistrahma (Gorham) did similar work to record 1:1:15.6, 1:00.9 and 36.8, and Four Degrees (C Grylls) took 1:18.8, 1:03 and 37.3.

Red Keep (M Jones) and Shez Swanky (Newman) prepared for Rotorua next Tuesday with 1200m in 1:22.8, 1:07 and 38.5, Neat As A Pin (Hepi) took 1:23.4, 1:07.2 and 37.5, Star Ella (A Jones) 1:24.3, 1:09 and 41.8, Molly Pond (Grant) 1:19.8, 1:05.2 and 39.8, and Over Torque (A Jones) 1:20.6, 1:06.8 and 39.4.

Over 1000m Rotorua entry Joe Cargo (S Turner) recorded 1:05.4 and 39.6, Miss Sequoia (Grant) took 1:08.6 and 40.8, and Hurry (C Grylls), who runs next at Ellerslie, 1:10.5 and 39.9.

Cha Siu Bao (Bhiwani) and Mr Selfridge (S Weatherley) were restricted to 1000m in 1:14.1 and 44.7, while Savile Row (D Weatherley) was also kept to three-quarter-pace. He looks well after a break and is likely to target the Levin Classic.

On the all-weather track Barcelo (P McKay), who runs at Ellerslie on Monday, and second day runner Al Pacino (S McKay) cut out a sound 1000m in 1:03.8 and 36.3.

Talented juvenile Gold Fever looked ready for another winning run when she worked boldly at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on the course proper, which was just dead against the rail, Gold Fever (Lammas) was paired with Hall Of Fame (McNab) over 1000m, working away steadily to cover the distance in 1:05.2 and building momentum for a smart final 600m in 35.8. It was very good work by both horses.

After winning on debut last month, Gold Fever will be well favoured to repeat at Awapuni on Saturday. Hall Of Fame has freshened up well from his South Island trip and will resume in the three-year-old 1400-metre event at Ellerslie on Boxing Day before targeting the Levin Classic at Trentham in mid-January.

Mister Impatience (C Grylls) did sound work in preparation for Te Rapa on Saturday, running his last 1200m in 1:19.2, 1000m in 1:05.4 and 600m in 37.5 The Wellington Cup winner is coming to hand well.

Ali Baba (Coleman), a possible runner at Te Rapa, left 1000m behind in 1:06.7, quickening readily for a final 600m in 36.8. Perfect Fit (Coleman) enjoyed her work when rolling in from the 800m in 49.8 and cutting out her final 600m in 36.1. She is making pleasing progress towards the Sistema Railway.

On the plough Realta (Tynan) caught the eye in her work over ground, with the last 1200m in 1:15.8, 1000m in 1:01.6 and 600m in 35.6. The Graham Richardson-trained mare had no luck at her last start and can bounce back at Te Rapa on Saturday.

Perfect Start (Hillis) went with promising maiden Sure He Can (Danis) over 1000m in 1:01.8 and 600m in 35.2. The New Zealand Cup runner-up will start next in the Zabeel Classic on Boxing Day, while her stablemate goes to Te Rapa on Saturday.

Vinevale (Lammas) and Our King Sway (Bailey) were paired in smart work over 1000m in 1:02.9 and 35.8, while Good Lookin’ Gal (Gorham) ran the same distance in 1:03.5 and 37.2.

Keep Carmen Carion (C Grylls) and All Razzle Dazzle (Gorham) left 1200m behind in 1:17.2, 1:02.8 and 36.8. Te Rapa two-year-old entry Nothing On Me (C Grylls) went with Prize Lad (Ravi) over 800m in 49.8 and 36.2. Spin A Line (D Weatherley) and As You Will (C Grylls) ran the same trip in 55.6 and 39.8.

Sound Proposition (C Grylls) got through striding work with his last 1200m in 1:28.9 and 600m in 43.8, while stablemate Glass Slipper (Ravi) followed in 1:28.5 and 43.9. Sound Proposition runs next in the Zabeel Classic and Glass Slipper heads to Ellerslie on the same day for the Eight Carat Classic.

Rock Me (Cole) strolled over his last 1000m in 1:10.2 and 41.2, while over the same distance Auctioneer (Rastrick) was restricted to 1:15.2 and 44.2.

On the all-weather track Tiptronic (Fraser-Hayes) and Suliman cut out 1000m in 1:04.7 and 600m in 36.5. Last-start winner Tiptronic will run in the three-year-old 1400 at Awapuni on the weekend, while Suliman, a trial winner by Redwood, will make his debut at Te Rapa.

Eprouvez (Rastrick) ran a solo 800m in 52.5 and 37.8. Over the same distance Matuzalem (P McKay), Veine d’Or (Davidson) and a Smart Missile two-year-old (S McKay) recorded 54.7 and 38.9.

Snapshot looked on the way back to his best form when he galloped stylishly at Matamata this morning.

Working on the plough, Snapshot (Rastrick) strode from the 1200-metre mark to run that distance in 1:19.7, quickening over the last 1000m in 1:04.2 and finishing with a final 600m in 36.

Snapshot has taken a lot of improvement out of his first-up run in the Counties Bowl and will enjoy the step up to 1400 metres in the feature sprint at Te Rapa on Saturday.

Another class act in the Richardson team, unbeaten filly Volpe Veloce (Rastrick), worked on the all-weather track where she strode through her first round and then built momentum to run 1200m in 1:23.8, 1000m in 1:09.2 and 600m in 38.3. She was never at top and looks in capital order for the Eulogy Stakes at Awapuni on the weekend.

The only horse to work on the course proper, which was good 22 metres out, was Te Rapa candidate Ruby Armani (D Weatherley) who strode over 1000m in 1:12.2 and 600m in 40.4.

Back on the plough Aotearower (Coleman) caught the eye as she led Mister Impatience (D Weatherley) to the end of 1200m in an impressive 1:14.8, 1:00.5 and 35.8. Aotearower will be entered for the Cal Isuzu Stakes at Te Rapa, with a fall back option the Rating 85 1600.

Chambord (Miller) and Chadsdale (McNab), respective entries for Awapuni and Ellerslie on Sunday, impressed in their work over 1000m in 1:03.6 and 35.8. Over the same distance Vive La Difference (Lammas) and Sebrose (Fawcett) clocked 1:03.6 and 36.4, Our Abbadean (McNab) and Exhibition (Miller) 1:03.2 and 36, and Los Vargas (Tynan) 1:01.8 and 35.8.

Mary Quant (C Grylls) worked well in preparation for Te Rapa as she cut out 1000m in 1:04.2 and 36.8, while El Cajero (Newman) and Red Keep (M Jones) had paced on throughout 1200m in 1:14.7 and 1000m in 1:00.2. Fog prevented any further sectional timing.

The same applied in a smart gallop by Burning Bright (P Turner) and Massofdash (R Jones) over 1200m in 1:17.2 and 1:02.4. Te Rapa runner Clarify (P McKay) went with Tauranga Friday entry Plimmer (S McKay) over 1200m in 1:16.8, 1:01.8 and 36.6.

Mistrahma (Gorham) had pace on throughout 1200m in 1:14.5, 1:01.2 and 36.8, while Battle Royal (A Jones) and Cool Running (K McQuade) did similar work to record 1:14.9, 1:00.3 and 35.8.

Barcelo (P McKay) prepared for the three-year-old feature at Ellerslie on Sunday when paired with Tyrion (S McKay) over 1000m in 1:05.2 and 37.5. Wimbledon (M Jones) and Durango (R Jones) were not after time over 1200m in 1:26, 1:10.2 and 40.6. Swing Note (McNab) went well over 800m in 51.8 and 36.9.

Others to work over ground included Shocking Luck (McNab) and Madam Monica (K Price) who covered 1200m in 1:18.1, 1:05.2 and 38.2, Good Lookin’ Gal (Gorham) 1:21.4, 1:05 and 38.5, Star Ella (A Jones) 1:24.8, 1:08.6 and 40.2, All Knitted Up (Bourke) 1:18.4, 1:05.2 and 38.6, and Crackthegoodstuff (Murray) 1:18.7, 1:04.5 and 38.7.

Ellerslie candidates Great Expectations (Gorham) and Princess Lolita (Tynan) were in good form over 1000m in 1:00.8 and 35.4. Xtravagant (Miller) was well held over 800m in 1:00.4 and 44.7. He is scheduled to trial at Te Aroha next week and have one further trial before resuming in the Telegraph at Trentham later in January.

Other plough gallops: 1200m: El Corredor (Bailey) and Yes Again (Gibbs-Mannsen) 1:22.9, 1:06.9, 37.9; Dubai Shuffle (Gorham) 1:17.9, 1:03.1, 36.2; Kane (C Grylls) 1:25.2, 1:09.6, 39.7; Darci Dinero (Fraser-Hayes) 1:29.2, 1:13.2, 43.8; Miss Horotiu (Wratten) 1:26.9, 1:10.5, 40.2.

1000m: Kuia (K Jones) 1:06.4, 38; Feisty Jane (Coleman) 1:12.4, 41.2; Sororia (Bourke) and Press My Buttons (D Weatherley) 1:09.2, 39.6; Only If (Davidson) 1:07.8, 38; Over Torque (A Jones) and a Faltaat gelding (R Jones) 1:02.6, 36.2; Cote d’Or (Wratten) 1:15.4, 43.8.  

A number of horses with feature weekend engagements were in good form as they got through their paces at Matamata this morning.

On the course proper, which was good 23 metres out, Red Striker (M Jones) hit out boldly over 1000m in 1:04.2 and found the line well after a final 600m in 37.4. The Jim Collett-trained mare has trained on pleasingly from her first-up run in the Counties Bowl and will be hard to beat in the Concorde Handicap at Ellerslie on Saturday.

Race rival Irish Moon (Coleman) went with Barnaby (Yanigeda) on the all-weather track, where they cut out 1000m in dashing style to record 1:00.4 and 35.2 for their final 600m. Irish Moon is another to have taken a lot of benefit from his first-up run, while Barnaby doesn’t need to improve much on his last-start second to play a part in his Rising Stars engagement at Ellerslie.

Abidewithme was ridden by her Captain Cook Stakes jockey Danielle Johnson when she worked on the plough with Echezeaux (Lammas), covering 1000m in 1:05 and quickening for a final 600m in 36.2. Abidewithme has thrived since her Tauranga Stakes win and is primed for a big effort in the Trentham feature. Echezeaux will also run over 1600 metres at Trentham in Rating 75 grade.

Impressive recent maiden graduate Seraphim (Miller) drew attention to her Trentham prospects when she and stablemate Mopsy (Ritchie) cut out 1000m in a brilliant 1:01.6 and 35.2. Zambezi Warrior (McNab) was in good form for Ellerslie when he and Royal Success (Miller) cut out 1000m in 1:03.4 and 36.6.

Lili Miss Waitoki (Danis) and Crackthegoodstuff Murray) also ran smart time over 1000m in 1:02.8 and 36.5, while Melody Belle (Johnson) and Smashing (Lammas) looked the part as they reeled off 800m in 49.8 and 36.1.

Joe Cargo (S Turner) did sound work over ground, with his last 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:05.8 and 37.2, while stablemate Hot In High Heels (S Turner) did similar work in 1:19.5, 1:03.6 and 36.4.

Grazia (Cameron) and Kingsman (McNab) left 1000m behind in 1:06.6 and 36.3. Over the same ground Vanilla Moon (S Weatherley) and Suffire (C Grylls) returned 1:06.1 and 37.2, Splurge (Miller) 1:10.3 and 41, and Star Ella (A Jones) 1:06.6 and 39.8.

Keep On Coming (Coleman) was timed over 800m in 54.8 and 39.5, Over Torque (A Jones) took 55.6 and 40.5, and Xtravagant (Miller) was well held when running his 800m in 1:01.2 and 45.2.

Working over ground, Red Keep (M Jones) took 1:26.2 and 40.5 for his last 1200m, while Maleficent (Fawcett) ran 1:28 and 41.4.

On the course proper Wonder Woman (S Weatherley) and Hurry (Bourke) strode over the last 800m of their work in 51.8 and 38.4. Wonder Woman is a likely runner in the feature three-year-old sprint at Ellerslie on Saturday.

Volpe Veloce (Rastrick) looked bright as she strode over 1200m in 1:26.4, 1:11.5 and 40.3. She is progressing well towards next week’s Eulogy Stakes at Awapuni.

Aotearower (Coleman), who is being aimed at the Cal Isuzu Stakes at Te Rapa on Saturday week, did her work on the all-weather track, where she breezed over 1000m in 1:12.2 and 41.6.

Hello M’Lady prepared for Friday’s Wellington Stakes at Otaki with an exceptional piece of work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on the plough and with blinkers fitted, Hello M’Lady (K McQuade) was asked for a stern hitout and delivered with 1200m in 1:14.2, 1000m in 1:00.1 and a final 600m in 34.7. It was clearly the fastest gallop of the session and suggested another good performance by the Vicki Prendergast-trained filly, who remains a maiden despite her placings in strong age-group company.

Members of the Moroney-Gerard team with important engagements were in good form on the course proper, which was rated good with the markers out 23 metres. Wellington Stakes candidate No Fuss Gus (Cameron) and Avec Moi (Lammas), an entry for the Trevor Eagle Memorial at Ellerslie, were paired in solid work over 1000m in 1:04.7 and 600m in 37.

Stablemate Ali Baba (Coleman), who runs at Ellerslie on Saturday, was timed over his last 800m in 52 and 38.2.

Back on the plough, Ellerslie entries Chambord (Miller) and Royal Success (McNab) got through sound work over 1000m in 1:05.4, quickening for a final 600m in 36.2. Over the same ground stablemates Princess Davone (Lammas) and Vinevale (Cameron) had pace on throughout to record 1:02 and 36.3, while Otaki-bound Vanilla Moon (Hepi) and Ellerslie entry Sleeping Beauty (C Grylls) ran a smart 1:01.7 and 36.3.

Splurge (Miller) looked the part for the Otaki as he cut out 1000m in 1:04.5 and 36.5. Clarify (S McKay) and Mercury Rising (Farr) strode boldly over 1200m in 1:16, 1:01.7 and 36.5. Also over ground, Realta (Fraser-Hayes) and Pure Lorde (Gorham) prepared for Ellerslie when clocking 1:17.5, 1:02.9 and 37.2, while stablemate Mistrahma (Gorham) went solo in a smart 1:16.8, 1:02.1 and 36.3.

Makarska (Coleman) underlined her progress when working over 1000m in 1:02.4 and 600m in 36. Others to run 1000m included Capella (Dowling) in a deceptive 1:03.2 and 36.5, Good Lookin Gal (Gorham) 1:01.6 and 36.1, Lady Amadeus (Cameron) 1:05.8 and 39.6, Antonio Lombardo (Farr) and Barcelo (S McKay) 1:06.8 and 38, Miss Horotiu (C Grylls) 1:01.3 and 35.8, Secret Stash (Tynan) and Pacquiao (Fraser-Hayes) 1:03.7 and 37.5, and Whatz Occurring (W Hillis) 1:03 and 36.4.

Cote d’Or (C Grylls) looked bright in her work over 1:03.2 and 36.4, while Jane’s Secret (P Brosnan) and The Talisman (Miles) took 1:04.6 and 36.8, Fendalton (A Jones) 1:08.2 and 39.6, Ballychine (C Grylls) 1:07.3 and 37.6, Great Expectations (Gorham) 1:06.6 and 38.8, and Embeya (C Grylls) 1:06.8 and 37.5.

Joe Cargo (S Turner) prepared for Wanganui with 1200m in 1:23.8, 1:08.2 and 39.1. Lil Miss Waitoki (Cole) ran the same trip in 1:22.4, 1:06.4 and 37.3, while Panella (A Jones) clocked 1:20.7, 1:05.8 and 37.5.

Xtravagant (McNab) looked the part breezing over 800m in 56.3 and 41.2. Promising juvenile Princess Rihanna (C Grylls) went with recent debut runner-up Feisty Jane (Hepi) over 800m in 49.3 and 36.8.

On the all-weather track Lauberhorn (Tynan) and Four Degrees (Fraser-Hayes) were paired in smart work over 1000m in 1:02.5 and 36.4. Molly Pond (Cole) was kept to 1:07.2 and 40.3 over the same distance.

Perfect Fit looked in good order to resume at Saturday’s Pukekohe meeting when working at Matamata this morning.

Galloping 23 metres out on a dead course proper, Perfect Fit (Coleman) shaded her stablemate Irish Moon (Lammas) at the end of a smart 800m in 49.7 and 600m in 37.

Last autumn the Kelso-trained mare capped her domestic season by winning the Gr. 1 New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes before an unplaced run in Brisbane. She won a trial at Cambridge last week and has the class to make her presence felt in Saturday’s Haunui Farm Counties Bowl.

Another fresh runner for the Pukekohe sprint, Red Striker (S Collett), also caught the eye as she completed her work over 1:06 and 600m in 38.6. She has returned in capital order for Jim Collett.

Aotearower (Coleman) and Only If (Lammas) prepared for Pukekohe with a sound 1000m in 1:05.5 and 38.2. Last-start winner Aotearower will try for a start in the Auckland Breeders’ Stakes with the Rating 85 1400 as a backstop.

New Plymouth Friday entry Grazia (Fawcett) impressed in her work with Sebrose (Leveque) over 1000m in 1:04.2 and 37.5. Sebrose is a recent returnee from Singapore, where he won five races, and may resume at Awapuni on the weekend.

Vinevale (Miller) and Rocksun (McNab), two more for Awapuni, completed their work over 1000m in 1:07.9 and 38.2. Snapshot (Rastrick) was never at top as he prepared for the Pukekohe sprint over 1000m in 1:07.8 and 37.8, while stablemate Los Vargas (Tynan) did well over the same ground in 1:05.4 and 37.2.

Hot In High Heels (Turner) prepared for Te Rapa on Sunday with a solid 1200m in 1:18.2, 1:04.4 and 38.3. Counties Cup entry Dubai Shuffle (Gorham) had first use of the track when he strode over 1200m in 1:19.4, 1:05 and 37.7, while stablemates All Razzle Dazzle (Gorham) and Wildflower (Faster-Hayes) returned 1:21.2, 1:07.5 and 40.2.

Zambezi Warrior (McNab) looked good when working in company with fellow New Plymouth entry Maleficent (Miller) over 1200m in 1:19.9, 1:05.7 and 38.2. Gold Fever (Fawcett) prepared for the Te Rapa juvenile race over 1000m in 1:08.9 and 39.8.

Great Expectations (Gorham) and Lausanne (Tynan) were keen in the early stages of their work over 1000m in 1:03.7, with the last 600m in 39. Lady Jasmine (Tan) and Dame Margot Fonteyn (Leveque) were more sedate over the same ground in 1:09.2 and 39.9.

Ruby Armani (Coleman) was timed from the 800m in 52.3 and 38.5, while Pacotaine (N Turner) and Shaik Rattle’N Roll (A Jones) took 52.2 and 38.9. 

On the sand Keepherinmind (Coleman) and Piazza (Hepi) did well over 1000m in 1:05.2 and 38. Roc Me (Cole) ran the same trip in 1:06.2 and 37.6, while Shocking Luck (McNab) took 1:08.8 and 39.5.

Mister Impatience (C Grylls) completed the last 1000m of his work in 1:08.9 and 38.4. The Wellington Cup winner is making good progress towards summer staying events.

Capella (Dowling) had her training stepped up, going keenly over her last 800m in 53.9 and 39.8.

On the all-weather track Barnaby (S McKay) and Clarify (P McKay) covered 1000m in 1:03.8 and 600m in a smart 36.2. Last-start maiden winner Shameless (W Hillis) was travelling well at the end of her work over 1000m in 1:09.8 and 39.4.

Glass Slipper completed her serious work ahead of Saturday’s New Zealand 1000 Guineas with an eye-catching gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working 20 metres out on a dead course proper, Glass Slipper (C Grylls) was partnered by Eletist (Bailey) over 1000m in 1:07.4, with their last 600m in 38.2 the best final section of the session.

With black-type placings at her last two starts, Glass Slipper goes into the Riccarton fillies’ classic as New Zealand’s highest rated maiden and looks in the right shape for another bold bid on the weekend. Eletist is entered for the open 1400 at Tauranga, with trainer Glenn Old hoping for rain on the day to advance his prospects.

Sound Proposition was ridden by his raceday jockey Michael Coleman as he prepared for the Tauranga Stakes with 1200m in 1:25.1, 1000m in 1:10.1 and 600m in 40.6. He has made good progress since his first-up run, but won’t be helped by forecast rain for the weekend.

Race rival Abidewithme (McNab) went with Tiffany’s Time (Lammas) over a truly run 1000m in 1:06.4 and 39.4. Abidewithme had no luck when finishing third fresh-up but has taken a lot of benefit from the run, while last-start maiden graduate Tiffany’s Time is in good order for the Tauranga three-year-old 1400.

Volpe Veloce (Rastrick), who returns to Tauranga for the same race, was unextended in her work over 1200m in 1:26.4, 1:12 and 40.8. She has trained on well from her last-start win. Stablemate Realta (Rastrick) impressed in her work with Pure Lorde (Gorham), striding over 1200m in 1:21.4, 1:08.2 and 41.4. After two preparatory runs Realta will step up to a middle-distance at Tauranga.

Rocknrolla (Grant) and Star Ella (A Jones) prepared for Tauranga with 1200m in 1:20.4, 1:06.6 and 40.3. Star Ella did well for a maiden to finish the gallop upside of her well-performed stablemate.

Ultimata (Coleman) covered 1200m in 1:22.9, 1:07.6 and 39.5 ahead of her Tauranga engagement, while Shez Swanky (Turner) and Right Here Waiting (Newman) left 1000m behind in 1:07.2 and 39.

No Fuss Gus (C Grylls) and Kane (S Weatherley) ran the same distance in 1:08.2 and 39.4. No Fuss Gus runs at Tauranga and his stablemate may head to Dargaville on Friday. Wild Flower (C Grylls) and Good Lookin’ Gal (Gorham) also worked over 1000m, returning 1:07.2 and 39.5.

Gentil Tonton confirmed his fitness for the first day of the Riccarton carnival with a sound gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working on the plough, Gentil Tonton (C Grylls) and King Kane (McNab) strode over ground and were timed from the 1200m in 1:16, with the last 1000m in 1:01.8 and finishing off with 600m in 36.7.

Gentil Tonton has trained on pleasingly from his last-start second and will be an interesting runner in Saturday’s Metropolitan Trophy leading up to the Christchurch Casino New Zealand Cup. Maiden galloper King Kane acquitted himself well in this morning’s gallop and is one to watch when he steps up in distance.

Te Aroha visitor Hiflyer (S Collett) looked bright when preparing for Te Rapa on Saturday with a well-held 1000m in 1:11.5 and 600m in 40.5. The highly promising Tavistock gelding won well at last week’s trial meeting ion his home track and will resume over 1400 metres on the weekend.

Another from the Peter Lock team, last-start winner Classy Chloe (C Grylls), impressed in her Te Rapa preparation over 1000m in 1:04 and 36.7. Lucky’s Revenge (P McKay) and Clarify (S McKay) limbered up for Te Rapa over the same distance in 1:06.8 and 37.7, while Tesia (Gorham) and My Dakota (Tynan) prepared for Rotorua on Friday in 1:05.4 and 38.6.

Panella (Grant) and Lets Go Tiger (A Jones) were in good form ahead of Te Rapa as they left 1000m behind in 1:03.9 and 36.8. In similar work Epic Tale (Fawcett) and Maleficent (Yan) returned 1:03.3 and 36.5, while stablemate Paradise Rock (Leveque) drew attention to his Rotorua prospects in keen work over 1000m in 1:00.5 and 36.7.

Keepherinmind (Coleman) was paired with Divine Duke (Singh) over 1000m in 1:05.2 and 37.9. Rocknrolla (A Jones) took 1:07.2 and 38, and Four Degrees (Tynan) and Lauberhorn (Rastrick) 1:05.9 and 37.6.

Dahl’s Delight (P Brosnan) and It’s A Kinda Magic (Miles) had pace on throughout 1000m in 1:04.5 and 37.8. Cool Running (K McQuade), another for Rotorua, strode over the last 1200m of his work in 1:16.8, 1:02.8 and 37.3.

Matuzalem (P McKay) and Barcelo (S McKay) were timed over their last 800m in 50.6 and 37.6, while another for Te Rapa, promising juvenile Summer Monsoon (McNab), went with a Pins filly (Fawcett) over 600m in 38.3.

Going Gang Busters (S Weatherley) ran a solo 1000m in 1:04.4 and 37.2, Sasanof’s Hero (Turner) and a Jimmy Choux filly (S Collett) took 1:06.9 and 37.2, Fendalton (A Jones) and a filly by Thewayyouare (Grant) 1:06.8 and 38.4, Stolen Love (Winters) 1:07 and 37.2, and Miss Elegant (Grant) 1:08 and 38.6.

Thailand (Robinson) and Red Keep (M Jones) worked over ground with their 1200m in 1:21, 1:05.2 and 37.6. El Cajero (S Collett) and Wimbledon (Turner) were strong in their work over 1200m in 1:19.2, 1:05 and 38.6. Mister Impatience (C Grylls) was well held over his last 1000m in 1:12.6 and 42.8.

On the courser proper, which was good 20 metres out, Te Rapa entry Fortaleza (S Weatherley) was paired with Hastings Sunday runner Embeya (Coleman) over 1000m in 1:09.5 and 39.2. Another for Hastings, Majic El (C Grylls) worked over the same ground in 1:06 and 38.4.

On the all-weather track, Riccarton-bound Perfect Start (W Hillis) worked over ground and was timed from the 1200m in 1:15.2, picking up Whatz Occurring for a final 1000m in 1:01.7 and 600m in 36.2.

Rotorua entry Cote d’Or (C Grylls) was keen in her work over 1000m in 1:07.2 and 36.8, while Lucky Feather (Cole) ran the same trip in 1:07.8 and 40. Makarska (Lammas) was deceptive as she got through 1000m in 1:02.9 and 36.8.

Perfect Fit (Coleman) underlined her progressive with tidy work over 800m in 48.3 and 35.4, while Splurge (McNab) was more contained as he recorded 54.2 and 39.2.

Dragon Robe and Only If shaped up for Tauranga on the weekend with an eye-catching gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working on the plough, Dragon Robe (Lammas) and Only If (Davidson) put the pace on from the 1000-metre mark to run the distance in 1:01.8 and round it off with 600m in 35.8.

Dragon Robe has not been sighted since her impressive debut early last month but looks ready for a bold effort in Saturday’s Rating 65 1400. Only If is entered for the same race and also looks bright after a month away from the races.

Good Vibes (P Brosnan) and Messi (Miles) signalled their Tauranga prospects with good work together over 1000m in 1:06.1 and 37.5. At the same distance Sasanof’s Hero (Turner) got through his work well to record 1:04.3 and 36.4, while two others from the Jim Collett team, Right Here Waiting (Roff) and Durango (Robinson) did well for maidens running 1:03.2 and 35.8.

Beauty’s Rose (C Grylls) wasn’t after time but still impressed over 1200m in 1:22.6, 1:06.8 and 37.9. Pacquiao (C Grylls) was also out for an easy workout with 1000m in 1:09.8 and 42.5.

Gentil Tonton (Coleman) looked to be ticking over nicely towards the New Zealand Cup as he strolled over his final 1000m in 1:13.8 and 43.5. Stablemate Suffire (C Grylls) was allowed to stride in from the 800m in 57.5 and 37.2, while Princess Anastasia (J Price) and Queen Boudicea (C Grylls) ran the same trip in 56.8 and 41.6.

Others to work steadily over 800m included Makarska (C Grylls) in 52 and 37.7, Irish Moon (Coleman) 53.8 and 39.6 and Icing On The Cake (Boyack) 57.5 and 42.2. Over 1000m Beaumarchais (Richards) returned 1:11.8 and 40.5, and Deluxe Edition (Cole) 1:12.5 and 42.4.

On the all-weather track a trio from the Graham Richardson stable did smart work in preparation for the three-year-old sprint at Tauranga. Volpe Veloce (Rastrick) went solo over 1200m in 1:24 and 600m in 37.7, while Tesia (Fraser-Hayes) and Secret Stash (Tynan) were paired over 1000m in 1:06.2 and 37.

Volpe Veloce is still in the entries for the New Zealand 1000 Guineas but according to her trainer is very unlikely to make the trip south.

Promising galloper Sleeping Beauty looked ready to continue her winning form when she galloped stylishly at Matamata this morning.

Working 15 metres on a heavy course proper, Sleeping Beauty (D Weatherley) was strong at the line as she completed 1000m in 1:06.7 and the final 600m in 39.7. The Rip Van Winkle mare was impressive on debut at Taupo last month and should manage the step up in class at Rotorua on Saturday.

Sleeping Beauty wasn’t the only member of the O’Sullivan/Scott stable to underline its weekend prospects. Rotorua-bound trio Beauty’s Rose (S Weatherley), Gentil Tonton (D Weatherley) and Vanilla Moon (Loon) were matched in sound work over 1000m in 1:07 and 39.3, while Persuasive (Loon) ran the same distance in 1:07.1 and 39.8, and Keepherinmind (C Grylls) recorded 1:06.8 and 39.6.

Cha Siu Bao (Coleman) and Secret Spirit (Ravi) were timed over 800m in 52.4 and 600m in 38.7. Cha Siu Bao and stablemate Sweet Leader were booked on a Tuesday night flight to Christchurch ahead of their Ashburton weekend engagements.

Volpe Veloce (Rastrick), who will be on trial for the New Zealand 1000 Guineas when she runs at Rotorua on Saturday, looked bright when restricted to 1000m in 1:13.8 and 39.6.

De Chine (C Grylls) got through sound work in preparation for Tauranga on Friday when cutting out 1200m in 1:24.8, 1000m in 1:09.6 and 600m in 41.6. Rotorua entry Pacquiao (Rastrick) was paired with the Tiptronic (Fraser-Hayes) over 1000m in 1:12.2 and 40.7. Tiptronic is a likely looking O’Reilly gelding with Graham Richardson.

From the same quarters, Letmeby (Gorham) covered 1200m in a solid 1:21.5, 1:08.2 and 40.5, while fellow Rotorua entry Tesia (Tynan) ran 1000m in 1:12.5 and 39.  Los Vargos was not timed but appeared to manage the conditions well when working with Keep Carmen Carion.

On the sand Kinda Leica  (K McQuade) prepared for the Rotorua Plate with 1200m in 1:20.8, 1:06.4 and 39.4. Dubai Shuffle (Gorham) shone as he so often does in trackwork when covering the same distance in 1:16.5, 1:02.4 and 36.2.

El Nino (M Brosnan) ran good time ahead of Tauranga with 1000m in 1:02.8 and 36.7. Others heading over the Kaimais on Friday that caught the eye included Dahs Delight (Miles) and Embraceable You (P Brosnan), who ran 1000m in 1:05.6 and 38.8, and stablemates Good Vibes (P Brosnan) and It’s A Kinda Magic (Miles) over the same ground in 1:05.2 and 39.

Smart sprinter Red Striker (S Collett) continued her progress with 1000m in 1:09 and 38.7, while Amperage (Fawcett) returned 1:09.5 and 41, Charles Road (S Weatherley) and Dame Mapperley (D Weatherley) 1:09.1 and 38.8, and Panella (Grant) 1:12.3 and 38.8. Riddle (Wright) strode over 1200m in 1:23.8 and 38.5.

Those well held over 1000m included Ultimata (Wratten) 1:14.8 and 44.6 and Hello M’Lady (K McQuade) 1:15.2 and 44.9. Sound Proposition (Coleman), who is not far off resuming, strolled over 1200m in 1:29.6 and 43.3, while Southern Icon (Tait) cut out 800m in 50.2 and 37.

On the all-weather track Aotearower (Coleman) was in good form ahead of Rotorua with 1000m in 1:03.2 and 600m in 36.2.

Amarula (P McKay), who is ticking over for tracks to improve, was untroubled to run 1000m in 1:05.8 and 38.6. Rodmar (S McKay) and an Alamosa gelding (Miles) cut out the same distance in 1:03.9 and 38.6.

Irish Moon (C Grylls) ran in from the 800m in 51.4 and 39, while another from the Kelso stable, the Per Incanto half-sister to Spalato (Wratten), was timed from the 600m in 37.6.