New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes candidates Perfect Fit, Rasa Lila and Mary Quant managed the heavy conditions well at Matamata this morning as they prepared for Saturday’s Te Aroha feature.

Galloping 15 metres out on the course proper, Perfect Fit (Coleman) and Aotearower (Davidson) had pace on throughout 1200m, cutting out the distance in 1:18.5 with the last 1000m in 1:05 and 600m in 38.2.

According to her regular rider Michael Coleman, Perfect Fit handled the heavy ground well. The Ken and Bev Kelso-trained mare has made pleasing progress since her Westbury Classic win, her preparation including a smart exhibition gallop between races at Matamata last Wednesday. Aotearower, who also didn’t appear to be troubled by the heavy ground, may be entered for Friday’s Awapuni meeting.

Last-start Cuddle Stakes winner Rasa Lila was ridden by co-trainer Julia Ritchie in company with her maiden stablemate Stage Diving (Ramsay) and hit the line full of running after 1200m in 1:19.5, 1:04.3 and 38.5. She too has gone on the right way in preparation for Saturday’s Group One assignment.

Mary Quant (D Weatherley) had pace on throughout her 1000-metre hitout, stopping the clock at 1:03 and 37.6. Even allowing that she worked early in the session, it was smart work by the O’Reilly mare who might sneak into the Breeders’ Stakes field off her 83 rating.

Te Aroha candidates Attention Seeker (Grylls) and Persuasive (Hepi) caught the eye in their work over 1000m in 1:06.5 and 37.8, while open 1400 entry Snapshot (Rastrick) enjoyed his hitout over 1200m in 1:19.8, 1:05.4 and 38.4.

Japan/NZ Trophy winner Watch This Space (Cole) prepared for a possible Te Aroha start when paired with Zee Zee Top (Danis) over 1000m in 1:06.8 and 39.2. Apache Fireworks (M Brosnan) appeared to have freshened up well from her bold Auckland Cup run when she strode over 1200m in 1:23.6, 1:09.3 and 40.6.

De Chine (Tynan) and Tiara Concerto (Sapsworth) got through 1200m in 1:21.4, 1:07.4 and 39.9. De Chine has a South Island campaign coming up in quest of some black-type form.

Gentil Tonton (Coleman) hinted at a bold fresh-up run at Pukekohe on Sunday when he strode through the ground over 1000m in 1:08.9 and 39.6. Two more starters at the renovated Counties track, Light Up A Screen (J Collett) and Wimbledon (Newman), did well over 1000m in 1:05.3 and 38.2.

Jubilate (Sapsworth) and Precision Miss (Tynan) covered the last 1200m of their work in 1:19.4, 1:06.5 and 38.2, while stablemates Contessa Belle (Grylls) and Four Degrees (Rastrick) were keen in the early stages of their gallop over 1200m in 1:19.9, 1:06.6 and 40.

On the sand Labels (Danis) took time honours over 1000m in a dashing 1:02 and 36.5. She may run at Te Aroha on the weekend.

Over the same ground Pukekohe candidates Rock Me (Cole) and Ya Think (Danis) hit out freely in 1:05.2 and 39.4, while Underthemoonlight (K McQuade) worked soundly to record 1:06.2 and 37.6.

Cathedral Cove (Miller), who runs at Rotorua on Friday, and Pukekohe entry Zambezi Warrior (Ritchie) covered 1200m in 1:20, with their last 600m in 37.1. Stablemate Highly Likely (Hanafi) left the same distance behind in 1:20.4 and 38.6, while Ballychine (D Weatherley) recorded 1:23.4 and 39.

Rotorua candidates Queen Of Heights (D Weatherley) and Divine Duke (Coleman) were restricted to separate three-quarter-pace hitouts over 1000m, recording 1:15.4 and 45.6 and 1:14.5 and 44.8.

Mary Kate (N Waddell) and Explosive Octane (A Jones) were paired over 1000m in 1:12.8 and 42.2.   

Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes candidates Heroic Valour, Sassy ’N’ Smart and Gold Rush enhanced their weekend prospects when all three worked impressively at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on a dead track against the rail in the 6.5-metre position, Heroic Valour (Miller) and Sassy ’N’ Smart (Cameron) worked away from the 1200-metre mark to run that distance in 1:20.2. They built up momentum for a final 1000m in 1:05.5 and hit the line full of running at the end of 600m in 36.8. They have both trained on well from the Diamond Stakes.

Gold Rush (D Weatherley) also looked in good order for Saturday’s two-year-old feature when she was paired with Rotorua Friday entry Orange Peel (Hepi) over a sharp 1000m in 1:02.9 and 600m in 36.3. Gold Rush was allowed an easy time after her Matamata Breeders’ Stakes win and has come to hand pleasingly.

During a session when fog hindered some timing, the remainder of the course proper work took place 20 metres out. Queens Rose (Tynan) looked ready for a bold fresh-up effort at Ellerslie on Saturday when she strode freely over 1000m in 1:05.9, finishing off with a smart final 600m in 36.9.

Sound Proposition (Coleman) looked comfortable as he prepared for Ellerslie with 1000m in 1:07.2 and 38.8, while Temple Tiger (S McKay) drew attention to his weekend prospects when he led Brigadier (Winters) at the end of 1200m in 1:19.8, 1:05.2 and 36.7.

Herschal (Miler) and Carmenize (Fawcett) were paired over 1200m in 1:24.6, 1:07.2 and 39.3. Two more for Rotorua, Tatters (Coleman) and Stella Di Paco (Lammas), covered 1000m in 1:08.9 and 39.5, while Douro (Sapsworth) and Jubilate (Rastrick) left 1200m behind in 1:19.8, 1:06 and 38.8.

On the all-weather track Whatz Occurring (Danis) prepared for Ellerslie with 1000m in 1:06.6 and 38.4. Rotorua runner Keep Carmen Carion (Sapsworth) ran the same distance in 1:08.8 and 41.5, while Dinero (P McKay) and Al Pacino (S McKay) hit the line strongly after 1000m in 1:07.2 but no sectional time was possible.

On the sand Fascination Street (Coleman) signalled her Ellerslie prospects with a solid 1000m in 1:04.6, with fog preventing 600m time.

Cool Running (K McQuade) was timed over 1200m in 1:21.8 and 1000m in 1:05.6, while Almarie (D Weatherley) was timed over 1200m in 1:17.3 and 600m in 37.5. Gentle Tonton (D Weatherley) and Etonette (S Weatherley) ran the same trip in 1:17.8 and 37.6. Ultimata (Wratten) was allowed to stretch out over 1000m in 1:11.9 and 39.6.

Orange Peel underlined her weekend prospects with smart work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping 20 metres on a dead course proper, Orange Peel (Coleman) was impressive in the manner she and Prize Lad (S Weatherley) completed 1000m in 1:07.5 and the final 600m in 37.9.

After her bold fresh-up run for fourth at Ellerslie, Orange Peel looks well placed for a return to the winner’s list at Tauranga, where her stablemate Prize Lad is also entered.

Snapshot had his raceday rider Craig Grylls in the saddle when he got through sound work over 1200m in 1:17, 1000m in 1:02.2 and 600m in 36.7. Snapshot is in good order for Saturday’s Japan/NZ Trophy, but trainer Graham Richardson has his fingers crossed for a good track.

Others from the Richardson stable to draw attention to their weekend engagements included Maholo (Fraser-Hayes) and Precision Miss (Tynan), who strode over 1200m in 1:17.2, 1:02.6 and 36.4, and Dubai Shuffle (Sapsworth), who covered the same ground in 1:20.7, 1:06.2 and 38.

Gold Rush (Grylls) looked bright as she got through her first piece of faster work since winning the Matamata Breeders’ Stakes, cutting out 800m in 1:02.4 and 600m in 45.8. The So You Think filly is on target for the Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes.

Queens Rose continued her preparation for autumn racing when getting through 1200m in 1:24.4 and 600m in 40.1.

On the sand Meritaggio was ridden by her co-trainer Stephen Ramsay in smart work over 1000m in 1:05.2 and 36.8, while stablemate Belle Eclipse (Ramsay) was timed from the 800m in 49.2 and 36.5.

Southern Power (Grylls) prepared for Tauranga with stayer’s work timed from the 1200m in 1:21.2, 1:05.2 and 37.6. Sombreuil (Davidson) and Sunset Girl (Robinson) were paired over 1000m in 1:05 and 37.2, while Molly Pond (Grant) took 1:07.1 and 39.8.

Brer (Miller), who is making good progress for the jumping season, was allowed to stretch out over his last 1000m in 1:12.4 and 42, while El Corredor (Swann) and Our King Sway (Gibbs-Manson) did similar work in 1:12.2 and 41.8.

On the all-weather track Zee Zee Top (Grylls) and Pretty In Pink (Lammas) were paired in smart work over 1000m in 1:03.6 and 36.2. Boy (Cole) and Rock Me (Danis) ran the same trip in 1:06.3 and 37, while Impatient Dreams (H McQuade) clocked 1:07.8 and 39.9.

New Zealand Oaks candidates Strada Cavallo, Tessastock and Duchess Kate underlined their fitness for Saturday’s Trentham classic with sound work at Matamata this morning.

On the plough the Graham Richardson-trained Strada Cavallo (Rastrick) and Tessastock (Tynan) worked together over ground, building momentum to cover their last 1200m in 1:16.2, 1000m in 1:01.4 and the final 600m in an impressive 34.6. Strada Cavallo continued her good form when second to Oaks favourite Sofia Rosa in the Lowland Stakes, while her maiden stablemate finished a respectable fifth in the same race.

Oaks rival Duchess Kate was ridden by her raceday jockey Cameron Lammas when she partnered Te Rapa weekend candidate Amperage (Cameron) over 1200m in 1:20.2, 1:05.3 and 37. Duchess Kate didn’t have a lot of luck in the Sunline Vase and on Saturday will be returning to the scene of her Desert Gold Stakes win in January.

Irish Moon (Grylls) turned in a smart trial for the open sprint at Te Rapa on Saturday with a solo 1000m gallop in 1:02.5 and 35.1. Rasa Lila (J Ritchie) was in good form as she prepared for the Cuddle Stakes at Trentham by trailing Mopsy (S Collett) in the early stages of her gallop and working up alongside to cut out 1000m in 1:01.3 and 36.3.

Stablemate Silver Eclipse (J Ritchie) was in good form for the Lightning Handicap at Trentham as she cut out 1000m in 1:01.2 and 35.6. She was followed by Devil’s Harmony (S Collett) in 1:02.5 and 36.2.

On the course proper, which was dead 18 metres out, Mary Quant (D Weatherley) worked boldly over 1000m in 1:02.3 and 600m in 36.2. The O’Sullivan-Scott-trained mare will attempt her third consecutive 1600-metre win at Te Rapa on the weekend.

Stablemate Whosyourmaster (D Weatherley) also worked well in preparation for the Lightning Handicap when cutting out 1000m in 1:03.2 and 36.4. Da Shindig (Grylls) worked over ground and was timed from the 1200m in 1:21.5, 1:06.3 and 37.3.

Smartly (Cole) and Snave (Danis) worked on the rail in the three-metre position, where they had pace on throughout 1200m in 1:13.6, 1:00.1 and 35.5. Smartly will race at either Trentham or Te Rapa, while Snave goes to Te Rapa.

On the all-weather track, Onlyarose (A Jones) turned in a good trial for the feature Te Rapa sprint with 1000m in 1:03 and 36.3.

Back on the plough, Lauberhorn (Rastrick) prepared for the Wellington Guineas when he and Pacquiao (Tynan) strode over 1200m in 1:17.7, 1:02 and 35.4.

Te Rapa entry Chambord (Grylls) ran 1200m in 1:20.5, 1:04.5 and 36.2, while Persuasive (D Weatherley) and Divine Duke (Bhiwami) covered 1000m in 1:04.2 and 36.5. Arpeggio (Lammas) and Smashing (K Jones) ran the same trip in 1:05.3 and 35.6, Antonio Lombardo (S McKay) and Dinero (P McKay) took 1:04.4 and 37.2, and Massofdash (J Collett) 1:03 and 37.4.

He’s No Saint (A Jones) worked soundly over 1200m in 1:21.4, the last 1000m with Maestro Tom (Grant) in 1:05.9 and 600m in 37.5. Stablemate Silk Chardonnay (A Jones) was in bold form over ground, returning 1:16.5, 1:01.3 and 36.2.

Dezignator (Hillis) had pace on throughout 1200m in 1:18.9, 1:03.6 and 36.4, while Southern Icon (Tait) reeled off 800m in 47.8 and 36. Gardone (M Brosnan) wasn’t after time over 1000m in 1:08.8 and 39.8, while Sleeping Beauty (Grylls) took 1:09.9 and 40.2, Linchpin (R Jones) and Highly Likely (Cameron) 1:12 and 41.5, Boulted In (C Ormsby) 1:14.4 and 38.9, Queens Rose (Tynan) 1:15.3 and 43.4, and Battle Cry (Wratten) and Sombreuil (Davidson) 1:14.2 and 44.2.

Perfect Fit and Aotearower looked ready to continue their winning form at Ellerslie on the weekend when they galloped stylishly together at Matamata this morning.

Working on the plough, Perfect Fit (Coleman) and Aotearower (Davidson) had pace on throughout 1200m, cutting out the distance in 1:14.2, 1000m in 59.8, and hitting the line hard with a final 600m in 34.6.

It was first-class work by the Kelso pair, who have trained on pleasingly from their last-start wins. Perfect Fit will run in Saturday’s Westbury Classic, while Aotearower is an entry for the R85 1600.

Another for the Westbury Classic, Flavigny (C Ormsby), was paired with Makarios (Shin) in solid work over 1000m in 1:02 and 35.2. Flavigny has made good progress since her Wairarapa Breeders’ Stakes win.

Rose Of Virginia (Dowling) underlined her fitness for the Auckland Cup when she and Southern Power (A Jones) got through strong work over ground. They were timed from the 1200m in 1:17, with the last 1000m in 1:02.4 and 600m in 36.5.

Wellington Cup winner Mr Impatience continued his Auckland Cup preparation when co-trainer Chad Ormsby took him over two rounds of the plough. He was timed over the final 800m of his first round in 58.5 and the 600m in 44.6, then after easing down he rolled into his second 800m at quicker tempo, clocking 54.7 and 38.9.

Snapshot (Rastrick) and Douro (Sapsworth) were paired in smart work over 1200m in 1:15.7, 1000m in 1:01 and the final 600m in 34.6. Snapshot will be entered for both Ellerslie and Waverley on Saturday, while his stablemate runs at Ellerslie.

Silverdale (Coleman), who steps up to weight-for-age company in Saturday’s New Zealand Stakes, went with fellow Ellerslie candidate Chadsdale (Ritchie) in a soundly run 1200m taking 1:16.8, 1:01.8 and 36.

Rasa Lila and Belle Eclipse were ridden by their trainers Stephen Ramsay and Julia Ritchie in dashing work over 1000m in 59.5 and 34.8. Belle Eclipse is entered for Ellerslie, while her stablemate is being reserved for later in the month.

Felice’s Dream (Tynan) was also in form over 1000m, stopping the clock at 59 and 34.8, while Nothing Trivial (Cole) and Dezignator (R Jones) returned 1:02.8 and 35.5. Chambord (Leveque) prepared for Waverley with 1200m in 1:22 and 600m in 37.3.

Paco Rabanne (Grylls) and She’s Elusive (Andersen) left 1000m behind in 1:04.3 and 37.2, Smartly (Hillis) took 1:05.2 and 37, Meritaggio (S Collett) 1:03 and 36.8, What’s Occurring (Janis) and Temple Tiger (S McKay) 1:03.4 and 35.8, Polynesia (Ramsay) 1:05.9 and 36.8, and Sarabande (J Collett) and Thailand (S Collett) 1:02.6 and 37.2.

Light Up A Screen (S Collett) strode over 1200m in 1:20.2, 1000m in 1:05.4 and quickening for a final 600m in 36.2. Unicorn Zone (Coleman) was timed over 1000m in 1:06.4 and 38.2, Icey Fire (R Jones) took 1:05.6 and 39.2, Alert (Ritchie) 1:08.2 and 40.2, Herschal (Lammas) 1:09.6 and 40.5, Quintastics (S Weatherley) 1:13.3 and 44, and Galaxy Miss (N Waddell) and a Rip Van Winkle filly (Turner) 1:11.2 and 39.8.

On the course proper, which was good 18 metres out, Sound Proposition (Coleman) looked in form for Ellerslie when sent over 1000m in 1:05.3 and 600m in 37.6. On the all-weather track Family Secret (Grylls) was timed from the 800m in 52.8 and 38.2.      

Xtravagant did all that was expected of him in his final gallop at Matamata this morning as he confirmed his fitness for Saturday’s Australian Guineas.

Ridden by his raceday jockey Matt Cameron in company with Duchess Kate (Lammas) 16 metres out on the course proper, which was slow after heavy rain, Xtravagant travelled sweetly throughout 1200m in 1:19.2, 1000m in 1:05.3 and hitting the line well on the bridle with a final 600m in 38.2.  

Co-trainer Stephen Autridge was well satisfied with the work on the eve of Xtravagant’s flight to Melbourne.

“We’re as happy as we’ve ever been with him, he’s right on his game,” said Autridge. “With the rain we’ve had the ground wasn’t ideal for him, but Matt said he was alright held together like that.

“Everything’s in place at this end, so all we want now is a trouble-free trip across to Melbourne to set him up for the weekend.”

Duchess Kate also worked well in preparation for the Sunline Vase at Ellerslie. Capella (Du Plessis) got through very good work for the three-year-old fillies’ feature when she strode over 1200m in 1:23.2, 1000m in 1:06.4 and the final 600m well held in 38.8.

Race rival Mistrahma (Rastrick) did well later in the session in her solo gallop over 1200m in 1:20, 1:06.5 and 39.6, while another for the Sunline vase, Fame Seeker (Dowling), worked boldly in blinkers with Cherry Bay (Lammas), cutting out 1200m in 1:22.4, 1:08.2 and 39.8.

Irish Moon (K Davidson) turned in a solid trial for Saturday’s Darley Plate when she and Massofdash (S Collett) cut out 1000m in 1:02.6 and 38.3. Whosyourmaster (Weatherley) prepared for the big sprint with a more sedate 1000m in 1:05.8 and 39.5, while Silver Eclipse (J Ritchie) and Devil’s Harmony (S Collett) returned 1:05.4 and 39.4.

Watch This Space (Hillis) turned in a sound trial for Ellerslie over 1000m in 1:06.6 and 38.2, time that was matched by Mr Tiz Trophy entries Maholo (Rastrick) and Precision Miss (Tynan), who recorded 1:06.4 and 37.9.

Fellow Mr Tiz entry Windborne (Lammas) ran her 1000m in 1:06.2 and 49, while Sombreuil (Coleman) took 1:09.2 and 40 and Vibrant Moss (E Holmes) 1:09.3 and 40.1.

He’s No Saint (A Jones) maintained an even gallop over 1200m in 1:21.6, 1:07.8 and 39.4, Nathans Memorial candidate Apache Fireworks (M Brosnan) covered the same ground in 1:23, 1:08.4 and 39.6, Keepherinmind (Hepi) took 1:27.4 and 41.8, and Nathalie Falmet (Pratab) 1:27.2 and 41.4. All The Raj (N Waddell) was well held over 1000m in 1:10.8 and 40.6.

Sassy ’N’ Smart and Heroic Valour looked set to carry on their winning ways this weekend when they were paired in impressive work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping against the rail on a dead course proper, Sassy ’N’ Smart (Cameron) and Heroic Valour (McNab) hit out boldly over 1000m in 1:01.7, finishing off with 600m in 34.5.

It was excellent work by the Te Akau stablemates, with Sassy ’N’ Smart, who travelled sweetly to the line, set to retain her unbeaten record in Saturday’s Matamata Breeders’ Stakes. Fastnet Rock colt Heroic Valour, a winner on debut at Trentham last month, is in good order to make it two from two in the Reid & Harrison Slipper. 

The only others to use the course proper rail were Perfect Fit (Coleman) and Irish Moon (Davidson), who prepared for their weekend engagements with a slick 1000m in 1:00.4 and 34.2. The Kelso stablemates are in excellent order for Saturday’s open sprint.

Mary Quant (Weatherley) worked 15 metres on the course proper where she cut out 1200m in 1:15.6, with her last 1000m in 1:00.2 and 600m in 36. The O’Sullivan-Scott-trained mare will try for back-to-back wins on her home track on Saturday.

On the plough likely weekend rivals Bordeaux (Cameron) and Realta (Dowling) were paired over ground in solid work and were timed over their last 1200m in 1:16.7, 1:02.8 and 36.5. In similar work Matamata entrant Aotearower (Coleman) was partnered by Sombreuil (Davidson) in 1:16.8, 1:02 and 35.9.

Southern Power (A Jones) prepared for Saturday when she and Hot In High Heels (Lammas) strode over 1200m in 1:19.2, 1:03.8 and 36.6. Hot In Heels runs in the Lowland Stakes at Hastings next Wednesday.

Only A Rose (A Jones) turned in a smart trial for Saturday’s open sprint when galloping solo over 1000m in 1:01.5 and 35.6, while race rival Red Stryker (S Collett) travelled strongly over 1000m in 1:02.4 and 35.8. Over the same ground Lauberhorn (Rastrick) and Jubilate (Sapsworth) returned 1:02.5 and 36.3.

In Style (N Waddell) was restricted to 1000m in 1:10.4 and 38.6, while Whosyourmaster (D Weatherly) strolled over 1200m in 1:20.1, 1:05.2 and 37.5. Both talented sprinters are being aimed at the Darley Plate at Ellerslie on Saturday week.

Prized lad (Grylls) and Orange Peel (Hepi) did tidy work over 1000m in 1:04.1 and 36.6, while Flaming (Cameron) and Arpeggio (McNab) prepared for Matamata with 1200m in 1:18, 1:02.5 and 35.8.

Massofdash (M Jones) looked bright in her work over 1200m in 1:22.1 and 38.7, and Da Shindig (Coleman) ran the same trip in 1:22.4 and 38.1. Our Kingsway (Gibbs-Manson) and an El Hermano gelding (Brown) were kept to 1:28.5 and 41 for 1200m, while Keepherinmind (R Jones) took 1:27.6 and 42.8, and Mahalo (Rastrick) and Precision Miss (Tynan) 1:30.2 and 44.6.

Love Triangle (K Jones) was timed from the 600m in 46.4 as she continued her preparation for autumn racing, while New Zealand Oaks favourite Capella (P Turner) caught the eye when finishing off striding work on the all-weather track.

Saoirse looked ready for a bold fresh-up run on the weekend when she galloped stylishly at Matamata this morning.

Working on the plough, Saoirse (Dowling) was partnered by her two-year-old stablemate Tesia (A Jones) over 1200m in 1:17.3, increasing the tempo for a final 1000m in a slick 59.5 and 600m in 34.2. Saoirse is forward to resume at Ellerslie on Saturday, while Tesia is making good progress towards next week’s Matamata Breeders’ Stakes.

Wellington Cup winner Mister Impatience (C Ormsby) prepared for Saturday’s Avondale Cup with sound work alongside The Heat Is On (Shin), covering 1200m in 1:26.8 and building momentum from the 1000m in 1:08.6 and 600m in 36.9.

Race rival Rose Of Virginia (Dowling) was partnered by Southern Power (A Jones) in a solid hitout over 1200m in 1:16, 1:02.6 and 35.8. The Lance Noble-trained mare looks bright after being freshened from from her last-start win.

Silverdale (McNab) prepared for Saturday’s Taranaki Cup when he and Amperage (A Collett) cut out 1200m in 1:15.5, 1:00.2 and 35.2. In Style (N Waddell) and Tomorrowland (P Turner), both entered for the open sprint at New Plymouth, dashed over 1000m in 1:01.2 and 35.4.

Avondale Guineas entries Zambezi Warrior (McNab) and Bishop Rock (Ritchie) strode over 1200m in 1:18.2, quickening readily for a final 600m in 35.6. Attention Seeker (D Weatherley) turned in a smart trial for New Plymouth over 1000m in 1:00.3 and 35, Carmenize (Fawcett) and Herschal (McNab) cut out the same distance in 1:03 and 34.5, and Snave (Janis) clocked 1:03.2 and 36.8.

Ellerslie candidates Ali Baba (C Ormsby) and Soul Sista (Shin) were timed over the final 600m of their work in 36.5. New Plymouth entries Piazza (D Weatherley) and Real Savvy (Amit) got through 1200m in 1:20.3 and 36.6, while Belle Of Mapperley (Loon), who runs at Gisborne on Sunday, followed in 1:20.8 and 36.9.

Special Memories (Miller), an entry for the three-year-old fillies’ feature at New Plymouth, strode over 1200m in 1:20.5 and 600m in 36.4. Light Up A Screen (J Collett) and Sunset Girl (Robinson) left 1000m behind in 1:04.8 and 36.7, and Smartly (Cole) ran the same distance in 1:06.8 and 37.8.

Contessa Belle (Fraser-Hayes) was kept to three-quarter-pace over 1200m in 1:29 and 43.2, New Born King (C Ormsby) ran 1000m in 1:12.5 and 41.4, Rock Me (Cole) took 1:10.6 and 40.4, and Galaxy Miss (P Turner) 1:13.8 and 41.7.

On the all-weather track Only A Rose (A Jones) prepared for New Plymouth over 1000m in 1:04.9 and 35.9. Solo (Betty) completed her work with 1000m in 1:06.8 and 38.8, and Perfect Fit (Davidson) was kept to 1000m in 1:17.8 and 44.6. She has been freshened and may run on her home track on Saturday week.

Xtravagant confirmed his fitness for Saturday’s NRM Sprint when he took time honours at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on a good plough, Xtravagant (Miller) was paired with Chadsdale (McNab) over 1200m in 1:14.3, with the last 1000m in 1:00.2 and the final 600m in 34.7. The Autridge-Richards-trained colt will strip fit for his weight-for-age assignment at Te Rapa.

Race rival In Style (N Waddell) was not after time as she strode through 1200m in 1:21.2, 1000m in 1:05.6 and 600m in 37. After a confidence-boosting win at her last start, In Style will be an interesting runner when she steps up to 1400 metres on the weekend.

Antonio Lombardo (P McKay) prepared for the NRM Sprint with easy work on the all-weather track, where he and Clarify (Brown) covered their last 1000m in 1:09.6 and 600m in 38.

Back on the plough, Sound Proposition (D Weatherley) drew attention to his Te Rapa prospects when cutting out 1200m in 1:16.9, 1:01.7 and hitting the line well with a final 600m in 35.4.

Mistrahma (Rastrick) turned in good work later in the session when sent over ground and being timed from the 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:03 and 35.2. Stablemate Dubai Shuffle (Sapsworth) did similar work to return 1:17, 1:02.3 and 36.2, while Irish (M Brosnan) took 1:17.5, 1:03.6 and 36.8.

Te Rapa entry Makarios (C Ormsby) went with Unicorn Zone (D Weatherley), who runs at Matamata on Sunday, cutting out 1000m in 1:02.2 and 600m in 35.4. Silk Chardonnay (A Jones) bowled over ground and was timed from the 1200m in 1:15.8, 1:03.2 and 36.6, while Arpeggio (Leveque) and Opulent (Miller) ran the same trip in 1:21, 1:05.5 and 37.6.

Desert Gold Stakes winner Duchess Kate (Lammas) looked bright when she and O’Know (Leveque) left 1200m behind in 1:18.5, 1:03.1 and 36.2. Fame Seeker (Dowling), a Te Rapa rival for Duchess Kate in the Sir Tristram Fillies’ Classic, went with Over Torque (McNab) over 1200m in 1:24.5, 1:09.5 and 41.2.

Essdee (Hepi) and Neat Aza Pin (Loon) prepared for Sunday’s local meeting with a sharp 1000m in 1:01.8 and 600m in 35.9. Over the same distance Astrid (Coleman) returned 1:02.9 and 36.5, Smartly (A Collett) 1:01 and 35.2, Sombreuil (Coleman) and Nikoniko (J Collett) 1:02.8 and 36.9, and Watch This Space (Cole) and Whatz Occurring (Janis) 1:01.2 and 35.8.

Super Mario (M Jones) and Thailand (Robinson) strode over 1200m in 1:19.5, 1:03.5 and 37.3, while fellow Matamata runners Al Marie (Coleman) and Divine Duke (A Collett) took 1:18.8, 1:02.1 and 36.5.

Chambord (Lammas) and Skyscraper (Miller) worked soundly over ground, with their 1200m taking 1:16.8, 1:03.8 and 35.6. Lanciato (Dowling) and Teri (Lammas) ran 1200m in 1:18.9, 1:04.5 and 37.6, while All Knitted Up (A Collett) was kept to 1:25.2, 1:10 and 41.9.

De Chine (Sapsworth) and Lucky To Be Cool (Tynan) were paired in solid work over 1200m in 1:19.2, 1:02.8 and 36.2. Goshawk (Swann) covered the same distance in 1:21.5, 1:06.5 and 38.9, while Precious Percy (A Jones) took 1:23.4, 1:06.9 and 39.

Over 1000m Light Up A Screen (Roff) was unextended in her 1000m workout in 1:08.6 and 39, Felice’s Dream (Rastrick) was timed over her final 600m in a smart 34.8, and on the all-weather track Only A Rose (A jones) covered 1000m in 1:07.2 and 38.3.

Scrutinize kept his Waikato Guineas prospects well alive with a sound trial in blinkers at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on a good plough, Scrutinize (Miller) was paired with fellow Te Rapa weekend candidate Bordeaux (G Ritchie) in a solid hitout over ground. The Autridge/Richards-trained duo were timed over their last 1200m in 1:15.5, with the final 1000m in 1:00.3 and 600m in 35.8.

Scrutinize has not lived up to expectations in his last two starts, but with blinkers added and the step up to 2000 metres in Saturday’s three-year-old feature he certainly deserves another chance. Due to Matt Cameron being in Sydney to ride Hasselhoof, the Savabeel colt will be ridden on the weekend by Leith Innes. Bordeaux has trained on well from his last-start Te Rapa win and will run over 2100 metres on Saturday.

All Knitted Up (C Ormsby) prepared for the Waikato Guineas when sent over ground and being timed from the 1200m in 1:21.5, 1:04.3 and 36.9. The Mastercraftsman gelding has put together a handy formline since being stepped up over ground. 

Flaming (K Jones) and Vinevale (Lammas) were well matched as they prepared for Te Rapa over 1200m in 1:24.8, 1:04.6 and 35.8. Vive La Difference (K Jones) and Latin Rose (Fawcett), starters at New Plymouth on Friday, were not after time over the same ground in 1:26.6, 1:09.2 and 39.3.

Massofdash (J Collett), who runs next in the Wairarapa Breeders’ Stakes on Monday, was paired with Marcellus (M Jones) in a sound 1200m in 1:16.9, 1:02.8 and 36.5. Flavigny (C Ormsby), another heading south for the Tauherenikau feature, was not extended over 1200m in 1:25.4 and 39.2.

Te Rapa candidate Victoryshallbemine (Sapsworth) strode through 1200m in 1:23.4, 1:08 and 38.9, while Irish (M Brosnan) returned 1:21.8, 1:05 and 38.6. Saoirse (Dowling) cut out 1000m in 1:03.5 and 37.7, I’m Bronson (K Jones) finished his work well over the same distance in 1:06.5 and 38, while Pretty In Pink (Danis) took 1:06.8 and 36.8.

Bugle Call (A Collett) and Boulted In (C Ormsby) left 1000m behind in 1:06.6 and 37.5, and Teri (Dowling) took 1:03.4 and 37.3. Soul Sista (Grylls) finished off 1200m well when returning 1:19.5, 1:04.2 and 35.8.

In more sedate work over the same ground, Mistrahma (Rastrick) took 1:30.1 and 43.4, while Divine Duke (Coleman) ran 1:28.9 and 43.2 and Tessastock (Tynan) 1:33.5 and 45.8. In his first piece of striding work since the Levin Classic, Xtravagant (Miller) looked very bright as he rolled in from the 800m.  

Class gallopers Capella and In Style starred at Matamata this morning when fast times were numerous during a busy training session.

On the plough Capella (Du Plessis) worked away from the 1200-metre mark to cover that distance in 1:13.4, with the tempo increasing appreciably when she picked up In Style (N Waddell) for a final 1000m in a brilliant 58.4 and 600m in 34.6.

Capella will be out to reproduce her Eight Carat Classic form in Saturday’s Desert Gold Stakes at Trentham, while In Style, who was brought undone by the unsuitable ground in the Telegraph, is an entry for the open sprint on her home track this weekend.

Race rival Irish Moon (Davidson) was paired with fellow Matamata candidate Perfect Fit (Coleman) in a smart gallop over 1000m in 59.5 and 600m in 34.5. Smashing (K Jones), who runs at Trentham, and home track candidate Chambord (Miller) also looked sharp when they stopped the clock over 1000m at 1:00.2 and 34.8.

Jubilate (Tynan) and Snapshot (Grylls) impressed as they prepared for weekend assignments with 1000m in 1:02.6 and 35.7. Two0year-olds Sassy ’N’ Smart (McNab) and Heroic Valour (Cameron) were well matched over 1000m in 1:05 and 600m in 36.5. Sassy ’N’ Smart will be chasing a hat-trick on her home track on Saturday, while Fastnet Rock Heroic Valour will make his debut at Trentham.

Desert Gold Stakes candidate Hot In High Heels (Lammas) and Goshawk (Swann), who runs at Te Teko on Monday, worked in good style over 1200m in 1:16.6, 1:02.6 and 36.3. Starstripe (E Rika), another for the Desert Gold, and Ali Bab (C Ormsby) ran a strong 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:02.4 and 35.7.

Persuasive (Grylls) ran a sound trial for Saturday when galloping solo over 1000m in 1:01.2 and 34.6, while stablemate Mary Quant (Coleman) covered the same ground in 1:02.1 and 35.9, and Attention Seeker (Amrut) followed in 1:01.2 and 35.8.

Desert Gold entry Strada Cavallo (Grylls) went with Victoryshallbemine (Tynan) over 1200m in 1:17.5, 1:03 and 36.5. 1200m in 1:17.5, 1:03 and 36.5. Diches skate (Cameron), another for the Desert Gold, and home track candidate Silverdale (McNab) covered 1200m in 1:18.4, 1:02.5 and 36.2.

Antonio Lombardo (P McKay) and Al Pacino (S McKay) were not after time over 1000m in 1:07.2 and 37.5, while Nikoniko (R Jones) and Sombreuil (Davidson) took 1:04.2 and 36.3.

Also over 1000m, Super Mario (J Collett) and Thailand (M Roff) returned 1:04.2 and 37.8, Arpeggio (McNab) 1:07 and 38.2, Aladdin (J Collett) and Sasanof’s Hero (M Jones) 1:02.4 and 37.4, and Makarios (C Ormsby) 1:05.8 and 36.7.

Special Memories (Miller) wasn’t extended in her work over 1200m in 1:21.8, 1:06.3 and 37.6, while Quintastics (D Weatherley) took 1:20.8, 1:06.2 and 38, Lauberhorn (Grylls) and Tiara Concerto (Tynan) 1:16.4, 1:02.8 and 36.2, Open All Hours (S Weatherley) 1:21.6, 1:07.2 and 37.2, Zambezi Warrior (Ritchie) 1:24.7, 1:08.3 and 39.8, Soul Sista (Grylls) 1:23.2, 1:08.8 and 41.5, and Da Shindig (D Weatherley) 1:21.5, 1:06.3 and 37.8.

Poronui (Grylls) cut out 1000m in 1:02.9 and 36.5, So Choosie (Dowling) and Buy Me A Rock (Leveque) took 1:05.8 and 39.5, Danzabeel (Turner) and a Red Giant gelding (Brown) 1:05.6 and 37.5, and Aladdin Rose (Lammas) 1:12.2 and 43.7.

She’s Elusive (Hepi) and Matamata juvenile debutant Gold Rush (Grylls) covered 800m in a tidy 49.5 and 36.2. Over the same trip Beauty’s Rose (Hepi) took 53.2 and 38.4, Fas (McNab) and a Swiss Ace colt (Ritchie) 56 and 38.9, and Vanilla Moon (Loon) and Ballychine (Hepi) 59.6 and 44.2.

On the all-weather track What’s Occurring (Danis), Watch This Space (Cole) and Vincent Street (R Jones) ran 1000m in 1:03.3 and 37.

Windborne looked ready for a bold fresh-up effort at Trentham on Saturday when she galloped stylishly at Matamata this morning.

Work took place 20 metres out on the course proper, which was slow after heavy overnight rain. Windborne (Coleman) was travelling slightly better than her stablemate Astrid (Lammas) at the end of a smart 1000m in 1:04.8 and 600m in 37.4.

Windborne, a stakes winner in the spring, is set for her first start since November in the three-year-old sprint at Trentham, while Astrid lines up in the Rating 74 1400.

Rose Of Virginia (Dowling) and Realta (Coleman) prepared for the weekend with solid work over ground, timed from the 1200m in 1:20.7, 1:06.9 and 39. City of Auckland Cup runner-up Rose Of Virginia will run at Ellerslie on Sunday in the Karaka Stayers’ Cup, while her stablemate heads to Trentham for the Summer Cup.

Another for the Karaka Stayers’ Cup, Dubai Shuffle (Rastrick), caught the eye over 1200m in 1:19.4, 1:05.7 and 37.8, good time late in the session. Karaka 3YO Mile runner Scrutinize (Miller) was paired with Ellerslie special maiden entrant Chadsdale (Ritchie) over 1200m in 1:22.7, 1:07.5 and 37.8.

Temple Tiger (S McKay) and Whatwedo (Fraser-Hayes) prepared for Trentham with 1000m in 1:06.1 and 37.4, while two others heading south, Golden Coin (Dowling) and Aotearower (Wratten), strode over 1200m in 1:19.2, 1:05.7 and 38.8.

Mistrahma (Tynan) went solo over 1200m in 1:19.4, 1:05.8 and 38.4, while De Chine (Tynan) and Pacquiao (Grylls) also advanced their weekend preparations over 1200m in 1:19, 1:05.2 and 38.8.

Trentham candidate Volks Lightning (Dowling) went with Ellerslie runner Piaf (Grylls) over 1200m in 1:22, 1:05.1 and 38.2. Silk Chardonnay (A Jones) set off over ground at a strong tempo and was timed for her final 1200m in 1:20.8, 1:06.9 and 39.2.

Beacon Of Hope (Miller) and O’Know (Lammas), entires for Woodville on Monday, did sound work late in the session over 1200m in 1:21.5, 1:06.5 and 38.1.

Duchess Kate and Osmunda shaped up for weekend racing with a smart gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working 25 metres out on a dead course proper, Duchess Kate (Coleman) and Osmunda (Hercock) hit the line impressively at the end of 1000m in 1:05.6 and 600m in 37.7. Duchess Kate returns to Ellerslie on Saturday to attempt a repeat of her recent win there, while Osmunda, who looks bright after a short break, will run at Rotorua on Friday.

Perfect Fit (Coleman) and Irish Moon (Davidson) prepared for Ellerslie with bold work over 1200m in 1:18.2, 1:04.1 and 38. In Style (N Waddell), a rival for Irish Moon depending on the weather, completed 1000m under a strong hold in 1:07.8 and 39.2.

Attention Seeker (Hepi), a possible runner at Awapuni on Saturday, caught the eye as she cut out 1000m in 1:04.8 and 37.8. Second Fling (Dowling) looked ready for Rotorua when leading Outsider (Fraser-Hayes) to the end of 1200m in 1:21, 1:06.2 and 38.9.

Maholo (Rastrick) and Tiara Concerto (Tynan) were also in good form for Rotorua as they strode over 1000m in 1:05.8 and 37.4. All The Raj (P Turner) and a Red Giant gelding (Gibbs-Manson) had pace on over the same ground in 1:05.2 and 38, while Rotorua first starter Contessa Belle (Rastrick) was paired with De Chine (Tynan) over 1000m in 1:07 and 38.2.

Awapuni runner Victory Dragon (Brown) was well held over 1000m in 1:09.6 and 38.5. At the same distance Summer’s Boy M Brosnan) returned 1:07.1 and 39.8, and Persuasive (D Weatherley) took 1:05 and 38.2.

Hot In High Heels (Lammas) and Goshawk (Conder) got through sound work over 1200m in 1:20, 1:06.1 and 38.6. Southern Power (A Jones) and Precious Percy (Grant) ran the same trip in 1:19.2, 1:05.4 and 39.7, while Over Torque (Fraser-Hayes) and Trevita (Dowling) returned 1:20.8, 1:06.2 and 39.3, and Praise Dan (A Jones) and Miss Elegante (Grant) took 1:24.8, 1:09.2 and 39.2.

Ellerslie two-year-old runner Tesia (Dowling) was paired with Shamash (Fraser-Hayes) in a steady 1000m in 1:12.8 and 41.8. Tesia remains in contention for the Karaka Million.

On the sand Beacon Of Hope (Miller) turned in a good trial for Rotorua with 1000m in 1:06.6 and 37.5, while Covered ’N’ Bay (K McQuade) was keen through the middle stages of 1200m which she completed in 1:18.8, 1:05.1 and 40.2.

Thetruthisoutthere (K Jones) strode over 1200m in 1:25.2 and 38.9, while stablemate Special Memories (Miller) returned 1:23.4 and 40 and Riddle (Wright) took 1:23.6 and 41.

Sanhermano (Lammas) a first starter at Rotorua with good trial form, was never at top over 1000m in 1:08.2 and 40.4. The promising maiden Admeister (Samuelsson) worked away steadily to run 1000m in 1:09.3 and 38.5.

On the all-weather track Vincent Street (Hillis) and Letmego (Cole) were paired in a smart gallop over 1000m in 1:04 and 37.2. Barnaby (Dowling) and a Keeper filly (Fraser-Hayes) were not pressured over the same distance in 1:08.2 and 39.6.  

Fog hindered timing during a busy session at Matamata this morning, but a number of candidates for New Year’s Day features still managed to underline their prospects with impressive work.

On a good plough Whosyourmaster (Coleman) looked ready for the Railway Stakes when he cut out 1000m in 1:03.3 and the final 600m in 35.9. The O’Sullivan-Scott-trained gelding is in the right shape to go one better than his close second in the big sprint 12 months ago.

2015 Railway winner In Style (N Waddell) was paired with race rival Tomorrowland (Grylls) but could not be timed when the fog was at its thickest. The Danica Guy-trained pair hit the line full of running.

Stablemate Surpass (N Waddell) looked bright as he prepared for the City of Auckland Cup with 1200m in 1:18.7 and 800m in 49.9. Race rival Mr Impatience (C Ormsby) and All Knitted Up (Shin) cut out a smart 1200m in 1:21.6, quickening over the last 1000m in 1:03 and 600m in 35.8.

Great Northern Guineas favourite Scrutinize (Cameron) worked with his unbeaten stablemate Shillelagh (K Jones) over 1200m in 1:17.2. No sectional times were possible but they were working well as they emerged from the fog. Lance Noble’s pair for the three-year-old feature, Golden Coin (Coleman) and Lanciato (Grylls), were well matched over 1200m in 1:15.2 and 1000m in 1:01.3.

Royal Stakes rivals Starstripe (C Ormsby) and Fame Seeker (Dowling) were timed over 1200m in 1:19.5, while Blueprint (Dowling) and Second Fling (Fraser-Hayes) covered the same distance in 1:16.6. They are scheduled to race at Tauranga on Saturday.

Bordeaux (Cameron) and Chadsdale (Miller), who will run in special conditions races on New Year’s Day, galloped strongly over 1200m in 1:16.2.  Tauranga open sprint entry Jubilate (Sapsworth) completed a solid 1200m in 1:14.9, while Osmunda (Lammas) and Tavis Star (K Jones) were timed over 1200m in 1:18.7 and 1000m in 1:02.8.

Special Memories (Lammas) and O’Know (Hercock) cut out 1200m in 1:17.2, and Makarios (C Ormsby) and That’s How We Roll (Rika) returned 1:21.8 and 1:04.4 for their last 1000m.

Xtravagant confirmed his readiness for Ellerslie on Boxing Day with an impressive gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working right-handed 18 metres on a good course proper, Xtravagant (Cameron) was partnered by Ekraarstatic (Lammas) over a round, cutting out the last 1200m in 1:16.3 and the final 600m in 36.2.

The New Zealand 2000 Guineas winner has come to hand pleasingly and his reappearance in the three-year-old 1400-metre event on Saturday will be a highlight of the support card on Ellerslie’s big day. Stablemate Ekraarstatic doesn’t need to improve much on her last-start second to be right in the thick of her weekend assignment.

During a busy session several leading prospects for Ellerslie caught the eye. On the plough Eight Carat Classic entry Capella looked in good shape after her impressive home track win last Wednesday when she cut out 1200m in 1:17.3, with her last 1000m in 1:01.8 and 600m in 35.5. She was ridden by Mark Du Plessis, replacing Opie Bosson who is committed to Eulogy Stakes winner Coldplay on Saturday.

Race rival Strada Cavallo (Rastrick) and three-year-old 1400 candidate Precision Miss (Tynan) turned in good work over 1200m in 1:17.2, 1:01.7 and 35.8, while Volks Lightning (Grylls), another for the Eight Carat,  was paired with Lauberhorn (Rastrick) in a smart 1200m in 1:15.7, 1:01.5 and 35.8. Ruby Armani (C Ormsby) prepared for the fillies’ feature with tidy work over 1200m in 1:20.6, 1:05.8 and 36.9.

Fascination Street (D Weatherley) was in brilliant form for the Newmarket Handicap when she ran a solo 1000m in 59.2 and 35. Race rival Irish Moon (Lammas) went with Muriwai (Coleman) over 1200m in 1:15.9, 1:00 and 35.2.

Red Striker (S Collett) also looked on target for the Newmarket when cutting out 1200m with Light Up A Screen (J Collett) in 1:1:17.2, 1:01.5 and 36.3. Sound Proposition (D Weatherley) looked ready for a bold fresh-up run on the weekend when he left 1000m behind in 1:01.4 and 36.2, while stablemate Suffire (Grylls) followed over the same distance in 1:01.5 and 36.4.

Perfect Fit (Davidson) looked in the right shape to complete a hat-trick on Saturday when she and Aotearower (Coleman) reeled off 1200m in 1:14.9, 1:00.4 and 35. Others to run good time included Vinevale (Miller) and Astrid (Hercock) over 1000m in 1:03.2 and 36.1.

Opulent (K Jones) and Vive La Difference (Miller) got through their work well over 1200m in 1:19.5, 1:02.5 and 35.8. Over the same ground Soul Sista (Grylls) returned 1:22.9, 1:05.9 and 36.6, Maestro (Lammas) and Our Drahma Queen (Cameron) 1:17.5, 1:02.9 and 37, Tessastock (Tynan) and Rose Of Virginia (Dowling) 1:18.6, 1:04.2 and 37.6, and Apache Fireworks (M Brosnan) 1:18.4, 1:03.4 and 36.8.

Whosyourmaster (Coleman) continued his Railway Stakes preparation with an easy 1000m in 1:09.8 and 41.4. Lanceato (Dowling), who is being aimed at the Great Northern Guineas on New Year’s Day, took 1:12.2 and 40.2 for his last 1000m.

Spawn Of Elaia (Swann) and Girlfriend’s Gone (Conder) did sound work over 1000mm in 1:04.2 and 36.3, while Massofdash (M Jones) was timed from the 800m in 50.8 and 37.6.

Bishop’s Rock (Cameron) and Zambezi Warrior (Ritchie) strode through 1200m in 1:19.5, 1:02.5 and 36.2. Quintastics (D Weatherley) ran the same trip in 1:25.2, 1:07.2 and 39.5, while Etonic (Grylls) took 1:20.4, 1:04.6 and 36.7.

Ellerslie two-year-old runner Tesia (Grylls) and Fendalton (Coleman), a first starter at Rotorua on Sunday with good trial form, were paired over 1000m in 1:04.1 and 37.

On the course proper, Snapshot (Grylls) prepared for the Newmarket Handicap with steady work over 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:04.4 and 37.9. Eprouvez (Rastrick) and Maholo (Tynan) covered the same ground in 1:04 and 36.2.

Heavy fog prevented timing of most gallops at Matamata this morning but amongst those who could be timed, Ellerslie weekend candidates Perfect Fit and Muriwai shaped up well.

Galloping 22 metres pout on a dead course proper, Perfect Fit (Coleman) and Muriwai (Davidson) worked away from the 1200m mark to run that distance in 1:17.4. Their last 1000m took 1:03.6 and although a final sectional time was not possible, the Kelso-trained pair impressed in the manner they hit the line. Muriwai steps up to black-type company on Saturday in the Trevor Eagle Memorial, while her stablemate will run in the Rating 75 1400.

Sultry Assassin (Tynan), an entry for Saturday’s Eagle Technology Stakes, impressed in her work over 1200m, cutting out the distance in 1:19.2 with the last 1000m in 1:04.7 and 600m in 38.4. Two more from the Richardson stable heading to Ellerslie, Tiara Concerto (Sapsworth) and Maholo (Grylls), ran the same distance in 1:20.3, 1:06.2 and 38.8.

Wanganui Cup candidate Rose Of Virginia (Dowling) covered 1200m in 1:18.8 and after picking up Maestro Tom (A Jones), completed the last 1000m in 1:04.8. Apache Fireworks (M Brosnan) was timed over the same ground in 1:24.2 and 1:09.4.

Among those to work on the courser proper but unable to be timed were Eagle Memorial entries Starstripe and Ruby Armani, along with Ellerslie runners Suffire, Red Striker, Massofdash, Realta and Lil Miss Waitoki. Astrid, Shillelagh, Tavis Star and Point Percy also appeared to be working well when they emerged from the fog.

Limited timing of those that galloped on the sand included Osmunda (K Jones) and Imperium (Hercock) over 1200m in 1:20.8; Parisian Jewel (J Price) over 1200m in 1:23.5 and 1000m in 1:07.5; Nightsong (D Weatherley) 1:24.6 and 1:08.1; Reiveke (A Collett) 1:25.8 and 1:11.2; Light Up A Screen (J Collett) 1:29.4 and 1:12.4. Over 1000m Irish Moon (Davidson) returned 1:07.9 and Aotearower (Wratten) 1:09.4.   

Whosyourmaster looked sharp for the Counties Bowl at Avondale on Saturday when he turned in a smart gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working 20 metres out on a slow course proper, Whosyourmaster (Grylls) had pace on throughout 1000m in 1:03.9 and finished off with 600m in 37.5. Even allowing that he had early use of the track, it was very good work and suggested he can bounce back from his recent below-par performances. 

Later in the session Snapshot (Grylls) prepared for the weekend with sound work when paired with Brown Girl (Sapsworth) over 1200m in 1:19.3, 1000m in 1:057 and 600m in 39. Snapshot, who is unbeaten in four starts, is entered for the Rating 85 1400 at Avondale but needs good ground to show his best.

Aotearower (Coleman) caught the eye as she prepared for Avondale with sound solo work over 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:03.6 and 37.8. Fascination Street (Coleman), who runs in the Auckland Breeders’ Stakes on Saturday, and Awapuni entry Strada Lady (Umis) cut out a smart 1000m in 1:03.9 and 37.9, while stablemates Fascinate Me (D Weatherley) and Piaf (Hepi) returned 1:04.5 and 38.1.

Counties Cup runner Smartly (A Collett) and Vincent Street (Luke), who starts in the open 1600 at Avondale, strode over 1200m in 1:18.8, 1:05.5 and 39.6. In similar work Masu (Dowling), an entry for Te Rapa on Sunday, and Beauty Ace (Fraser-Hayes) recorded 1:21.2, 1:06.3 and 39.5, and Apache Fireworks (M Brosnan) took 1:1:07.5 and 39.8.

Saffron Lady (C Ormsby) travelled strongly to the end of 1000m in 1:05.5 and 37.5. Over the same ground Te Rapa runners Golden Coin (Dowling) and Stolen heart (Fraser-Hayes) took 1:06 and 39.3, Our Drahma Queen (Lammas) and Spritz (R Jones) 1:08.6 and 39, Sarabande (J Collett) and Setarossa (Roff) 1:08.2 and 40.3, and Four Degrees (Rastrick) and Tessastock (Tynan) 1:07.4 and 38.6.

Second Fling (Hunt) and Blueprint (Leveque) prepared for Te Rapa with 1200m in 1:23.9, 1:08.3 and 38.3, while Mahalo (Rastrick) and Pure Lorde (Tynan) clocked 1:21, 1:07.2 and 39.3, and Dubai Shuffle (Sapsworth) 1:20.6, 1:06.1 and 38.8.

Roseana’s Spirit (Coleman) finished off her work well when paired with Bahrella (Cinder) over 1200m in 1:29.1, 1:13.4 and 40.3. New Born King (Shin) and Fortaleza (C Ormsby) were timed from the 800m in 50.8 and 37.8, while Wraithorth (Dowling) was not extended over 1000m in 1:11.5 and 41.6.

On the sand Bordeaux (K Jones) and Herschal (Hercock) caught the eye with a smart 1000m in 1:01.9 and 600m in 35.7. Bordeaux is entered for New Plymouth on Friday, while his stablemate runs at Te Rapa on Sunday.

Ekraarstatic (Lammas), who runs at Avondale, went with Hushed (A Collett) over 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:03.5 and 37.6. Taranaki entry Muscat Hills (Conder) and So True (King) ran the same trip in 1:19.3, 1:04.1 and 37.6. 

Avondale entry Babilloni (K Jones) was partnered by Paradise Rock (Hercock) over 1000m in 1:03.6 and 35.8, while Heartbeat (Lammas) returned 1:01.8 and 37.2, and Conjuring (Grylls) and a Sufficient gelding (Samuelsson) took 1:04.5 and 36.2.

Love Triangle (K Jones) and Chambord (Hercock) were timed from the 800m in 53.6 and 37.8, Vinevale (Fawcett) took 56.2 and 41.5, and Arpeggio (Lammas) 54.6 and 39.6. You Are Amazing (A Collett) was not after time over 1200m in 1:28.3 and 43.

On the all-weather track Lucky Feather (Coleman) looked bright in his work over 1000m in 1:03.2 and 36.8. Pompeii Tiger (Fawcett) and Temple Tiger (R Jones) ran the same distance in 1:05.6 and 37.6.

Muriwai and Zadiffra looked the part for Tauranga on Saturday when they galloped in good style at Matamata this morning.

Working on a good plough, Muriwai (Lammas) and Zadiffra (Davidson) were paired over 1000m in 1:01.2 and 600m in 36.1. It was smart work by the Kelso stablemates, especially Muriwai who was an impressive winner on debut last month.

Secret Spirit (Grylls) rounded off her 1000 Guineas preparation with a smart gallop in company with Fascinate Me (Umis), cutting out 1000m in 1:00.1 and 600m in 35.8. Secret Spirit looks bright and will be helped by any rain that might fall in Christchurch before the fillies’ classic.

Babilloni (Cameron) and Osmunda (Lammas) prepared for Tauranga with 1200m in 1:19.2, upping the tempo for a final 1000m in 1:02.3 and 600m in 35.6. Realta (Dowling) and Rose Of Virginia (Fraser-Hayes) wasted no time over the same ground, returning 1:14.9, 1:01.6 and 36.1. Realta runs at Tauranga and her stablemate heads north to Dargaville on Friday.

Tuffaar (R Jones) and Pompeii Tiger (Fawcett) did well later in the session to cut out 1000m in 1:01.2 and 36.8, while Sherpa (Tait) dashed over 800m in 47.2 and 35.4. Twickenham (Cole) and Nothing Trivial (A Collett) left 1000m behind in 1:01.5 and 36.2.

Another to run smart time was Link Road (Weatherley) over 1000m in 1:01 and 35.9, while Brilliant Magic (Wright) did well under a big weight to return 1:05.4 and 37.8. Volks Lightning (Dowling) and Trevita (Leveque) were not extended over 1200m in 1:21.2, 1:05.7 and 39.4, while Outsider (Leveque) took 1:22.4, 1:08.9 and 37.8, and Jedi Knight (M Brosnan) 1:27.4, 1:10 and 40.6.

Snapshot (Grylls), who will start next on Counties Cup day at Avondale, was well contained over 1200m in 1:20.6, 1:05.3 and 38.5. Smartly (Hillis), an entry for the Counties Cup, was timed over 1000m in 1:05.6 and 600m in 36.6.

Tallulah Belle (Fraser-Hayes) and an unnamed Tavistock gelding (Dowling) strode over 1200m in 1:21, 1:05.4 and 37.4. Over 1000m Setarossa (Roff) took 1:05.5 and 38.2, Solo (Grylls) 1:08.2 and 40.6, Astrid (Cameron) and Our Drahma Queen (Lammas) 1:09.8 and 41.4, Whosyourmaster (Coleman) 1:13.2 and 43, Almarie (R Jones) 1:11.9 and 41.8, Niamh Elizabeth (Lammas) 1:11 and 40.8, Masu (Hunt) 1:10.3 and 40.5, Gardenier (Coleman) and Christine Louise (R Jones) 1:12 and 41.8, and Panella (A jones) 1:12.2 and 42.4. 

On the all-weather track Ultimata (Coleman) prepared for Tauranga with 1200m in 1:20.2, 1:05.8 and 38.  

Tomorrowland and Only A Rose were in good form at Matamata this morning as they prepared for the feature sprint at Te Rapa on Saturday.

Galloping 28 metres out on a dead course proper, Tomorrowland (R Jones) and Only A Rose (A Jones) were paired over a smart 1000m in 1:02.4 and hit the line strongly after a final 600m in 36.5. They will meet again in the Legacy Lodge Sprint at Te Rapa, were they both have strong winning form.

Amarula (S McKay) and Canterino (P McKay) did their final work before heading to Riccarton on the all-weather track, where they were timed over their last 1000m in 1:03.8 and 600m in 36.5. The McKay pair go south in good form, Canterino a last-start winner and Amarula runner-up in the Sarten Memorial at Te Rapa. 

Most other work took place on the plough, where numerous smart times were recorded. Among these were Te Rapa-bound Attention Seeker O’Sullivan) and Suffire (Grylls), who reeled off a slick 1000m in 1:00.8 and 35.

Te Rapa runner Irish Moon (Lammas) and Muriwai (Coleman), who races at Rotorua on Friday, cut out 1000m in 1:01.2 and 35.4, while Rotorua first starter Invention World (Tynan) looked the part when paired with Solo (A Collett) over the same distance in 1:01.4 and 36.3.

Light Up A Screen (J Collett) and Massofdash (S Collett) wasted no time over 1200m in 1:16.2, with their last 1000m in 1:01.7 and 600m in 36.5, while Wraithorth (Lammas) and Second Fling (Lammas) ran the same trip in 1:16.4, 1:03 and 37.

Also over 1200m, Messi (C Ormsby) and All Knitted Up (A Collett) recorded 1:16.8, 1:01.6 and 35.8, Our Aberdeen (K Jones) and Hysteria Lane (Lammas) 1:20.2, 1:02.6 and 35.6, Landed Gentry (Grylls) and Prize Lad (Hepi) 1:16.3, 1:01.8 and 36.4, and Babilloni (Hercock) and Bordeaux (K Jones) 1:17.2, 1:02.6 and 35.4.

Antonio Mombardo (P McKay) and Jimmy Hoffa (J McKay), two more from the McKay stable going to Riccarton, were timed over 1000m in 1:03.8 and 36.7. Rough Copy (Hillis) hit the line well after 1000m with The Boss (Cole) in 1:01.8 and 35.6, Sir Darci (Hercock) and Echezeaux (Lammas) took 1:03.8 and 36, while Letmego (A Jones) and From Eden (R Jones) 1:01.3 and 35.4.

Lil Miss Waitoki (Dowling) and Blueprint (Fraser-Hayes) strode over 1200m in 1:16.9, 1:02.6 and 37, while Kakahu Nell (Boyack) and Apache Fireworks (M Brosnan) returned 1:17.6, 1:02.4 and 36.3, and Brilliant Magic (Wright) ran 1:21.2, 1:06 and 38.2.

Other gallops: 1200m plough: Da Shindig (Hong) 1:23.6, 36.3; Irish Encore (R Jones) 1:21.8, 36.6; Thetruthisoutthere (K Jones) and Tavis Star (Hercock) 1:19.8, 36.3; Packing Chaparral (Wratten) 1:23.8, 40.2; So True (A Jones) 1:19.6, 37.5; Secret Spirit (Singh) and Delta de Lago (Umis) 1:29.5, 44.2.

1000m plough: Cupid (O’Sullivan) and She’s Elusive (Amrut) 1:10, 35.8; Rising Sun (Grylls) 1:08.1, 38.2; Paco Rabanne (O’Sullivan) and Piazza (Coleman) 1:03.8, 36.5; Aladdin (Roff) 1:08.4, 39.5; Majestic Champion (Davidson) and Rockyaby baby (A Collett) 1:04.2, 35.9; Luckytobecool (Sapsworth) 1:12.4, 40.2; Star Of Greenbeel (Lammas) 1:05.2, 37; Lady Pinot (Hercock) 1:06.5, 39; Surpass (Clements) 1:09.6, 38.4; Teri (Fraser-Hayes) 1:04.4, 36.3.      

Wolfwhistle and Opulent looked ready to continue the run of form for training partners Stephen Autridge and Jamie Richards when they galloped stylishly at Matamata this morning.

Working on a good plough, Wolfwhistle (Hercock) and Opulent (K Jones) were well matched over 1200m in 1:17.2, with the last 1000m in 1:02 and 600m in 36.2. Wolfwhistle, a late scratching at Ellerslie last Saturday due to the track downgrade, had no luck in his first-up run could be a rapid improver, while Opulent has trained on well from her fresh-up win at Tauranga, where she and her stablemate will race on Saturday. 

Lanciato (Dowling) and Volks Lightning (Fraser-Hayes) shaped up well for over 1200m in 1:15.5, 1:01.2 and 35.8. Lanciato, a trial winner by Per Incanto is set to debut at Tauranga, while promising maiden Volks Lightning will run at Ellerslie next Tuesday.

Tauranga entries Fascinate Me (O’Sullivan) and Piaf (Singh) wasted no time over 1000m in 1:01.5 and 35.6, while stablemates Link Road (O’Sullivan) and Warner (Grylls) also caught the eye over 1000m in 1:01.8 and 35.

Smartly was ridden by her co-trainer Wayne Hillis in solid work over 1200m in 1:18.7, 1:02.9 and 36. She will run on Saturday’s Feilding Cup at Awapuni. Others to work well over ground included Chazelle (Blair), who recorded 1:14.9, 1:01.4 and 37.4, and Beauty Ace (Fraser-Hayes) and Stolen Heart (Dowling) in 1:15.6, 1:01.1 and 35.8.

Soul Sista (A Collett) and Ruby Armani (C Ormsby) did well over 1000m in 1:03.2 and 35.7, while Quintastics (D Weatherley) and Deschabeel (S Weatherley) clocked 1:04.5 and 36.7, and From Eden (K Myers) 1:04.4 and 37.8.

Others to work over 1000m included Gardone (M Brosnan) in 1:06.8 and 38.3, Bon Marche (Lammas) 1:04.5 and 38, Saffron Lady (A Collett) 1:08.7 and 39.7, Lady Painton (Lammas) 1:06.2 and 39.2, Zadiffra (K Davidson) 1:08.3 and 39.6; O’Reilly’s Gold (Miles) 1:07.8 and 37.5, Dezignator (A Collett) 1:06 and 37.5, and Light Up A Screen (J Collett) 1:07.6 and 39.2.

Over 1200m Unicorn Zone (Grylls) and Beauty’s Rose (Hepi) 1:20.6 and 36.1, Ekraarstatic (K Jones) 1:20.5 and 37.4; Keepherinmind (Coleman) 1:27.8 and 40, and The Heat Is On (Grylls) 1:25.6 and 41.7.

Impressive last-start maiden winner Arraignment (Samuelsson) and Deebee Percy (N Waddell) finished smart work with 600m in 36.8. Arraignment runs next at Ellerslie on Tuesday.