Hysteria Lane and Madame Jamai drew attention to their weekend prospects with smart work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping 22 metres out on a heavy course proper, Hysteria Lane (Lammas) and Madame Jamai (Hercock) strode off from the 1000-metre mark to cover that distance in 1:08.7 and hit the line well after a final 600m in 39. Hysteria Lane will start at Ellerslie on Saturday, while her stablemate is scheduled to run at Hawera on Sunday.

Ellerslie entrant The Fire Inside was ridden by co-trainer Chad Ormsby in solo work over ground, recording 1:24.2 for 1200m, 1:08.8 for 1000m and 40.5 for the final 600.

Galvanised (Fraser-Hayes) and Second Fling (Dowling) prepared for Ellerslie with 1200m in 1:25.6 and 1000m in 1:10.8. Fog prevented any further sectionals. Stralis (Grylls) and Flavigny (C Ormsby) finished their work with 600m in a respectable 38.7. 

Among those that could not be timed at all, Great Northern Foal Stakes candidates Fascinate Me and Secret Spirit appeared to be working well when they emerged from the fog.

On the sand, Smartly (K Jones) and Nothing Trivial (Hunt) caught the eye as they prepared for weekend engagements with 1000m in 1:04.2 and 600m in 36.3.

Davey Crockett (N Waddell) covered the same trip in good style to record 1:06.2 and 37.4, while stablemate Deebee Don (N Waddell) returned 1:08.2 and 39 and Hold Your Tears (H McQuade) took 1:08.2 and 39.5.

Over the same ground Reaching Out (Dell) and Sororia (C Ormsby) took 1:10.5 and 39.3, Prize Lad (R Jones) 1:10.8 and 39.8, and Avimore (Hutton) 1:11 and 40.3. Keepherinmind (Hong) was timed over 1200m in 1:25.7 and 39.5.

On the all-weather track Witz End (J Collett) got through his work well over 1000m in 1:07.8 and 600m in 39.2. 

Snapshot and Jubilate prepared for weekend engagements with smart work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping 25 metres out on a heavy course proper, Snapshot (Grylls) and Jubilate (A Jones) covered 1200m in 1:21.3, 1000m in 1:06.9 and the final 600m in 39.7. The Richardson-trained pair look in good order for Te Rapa on Saturday.

Saoirse (Dowling) and Ellis Web Ellis (Sapsworth) also caught the eye when cutting out 1000m in 1:08.7 and 600m in 39.5. Saoirse returns to the scene of her last-start Te Rapa win, while Ellis Web Ellis will run at Awapuni.

Vibrant Moss (Tynan) and Secret Power (P Holmes) prepared for Awapuni with a sound 1000m in 1:06.5 and 38.4, while Davey Crockett (N Waddell), who also heads south on the weekend, was well held over the same ground in  1:09.8 and 41.8.

Dubai Shuffle (Sapsworth) and Full Monty (Grylls) appeared at home in the conditions over 1200m in 1:22.5, 1:08.1 and 40.3. Irish Moon (S Collett) and Mass of Dash (J Collett) prepared for Te Rapa with a sound 1200m in 1:22.9, 1:07.6 and 39.8.

Bahrella (A Jones) went at an even rate over 1200m in 1:22.8, 1:08.6 and 41, while Sir Darci (Cameron) and Arpeggio (Lammas) were kept to 1200m in 1:29.2 and 1000m in 1:11.2, with poor light preventing a 600m sectional.

Kay’s Legacy (S McKay) and Buccellati (S McKay) ran their last 1000m in 1:10.6 and 600m in 40.2. Te Rapa candidates The Last Shower and Divissima could not be timed due to poor light but hit the lien strongly.

On the all-weather track Irish Heartbeat (T Autridge) and Le Bon Fin (Schistl) showed their fitness for Te Rapa with 1000m in 1:04.2 and 36.9.

Ocean Emperor (Grylls) turned in a pleasing trial for Te Rapa, tracking Whatwedo (Goodwin) and finishing alongside at the end of 1000m in 1:05.9 and 36.8.

On the sand Light Up A Screen (J Collett) prepared for Te Rapa with 1200m in 1:24.5, 1:06.2 and 38.2. Sophisticate (A Jones) ran the same trip in 1:25.2, 1:08.8 and 39.4, while He’s Dan (A Jones) took 1:24.3, 1:08.1 and 39.8.

Vitali (Umis), another for Te Rapa, covered 1200m in 1:21.2 and 37.6. Centre Stage (Hutton), a winner on her home track last week and a runner at Awapuni, looked bright when striding through 1200m in 1:25.5 and 40.6.

My Secret (Hong) did smart work over 1000m in 1:03 and 37.4, as did Southern Meteor (Tait) when dashing in from the 800m in 48.6 and 35.8. Awapuni two-year-old runner Reiveke (Grylls) was timed over the same distance in 51.4 and 38.

Makarska and Sombreuil prepared for Saturday’s Rotorua meeting with a smart gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working against the courser proper rail in the three-metre position, where the going was on the cusp of slow and dead, Makarska (Coleman) and Sombreuil (Luke) had pace on from the 1200-metre mark as they cut out the distance in 1:14.5, with the last 1000m in 1:01.2 and the final 600m in an impressive 35.7.

It was impressive work by both horses. Makarska, who continued her consistent form when fourth at Te Rapa late last month, will be entered for the Rotorua Stakes and the Rating 85 1560, while last-start Rotorua maiden winner Sombreuil returns for the three-year-old 1400.

All other course proper work took place in the 22-metre mark, where Rotorua Stakes candidate Queens Rose (Sapsworth) got through her work well with 1200m in 1:23.7, 1:08.2 and 38.8. She has trained on well from her last-start win. Needlly (Dowling) and Snapshot (Grylls) also looked sharp for the weekend when getting through a solid 1200m in 1:19.8, 1:06.2 and 38.9.

Twice Smitten (Hutton) and Stralis (Hong) were keen in the early stages of their work over 1200m in 1:20.6, 1:05.4 and 41.2. Over the same ground Gardone (P Ormsby) returned 1:22.4, 1:05.7 and 38.2, Tegwin (Coleman) 1:20.2, 1:06 and 39.8, and Eletist (Grylls) and Oompa (A Jones) 1:26.7, 1:08.9 and 38.8.

Fascination Street (Amit) and Cape Mapperley (Coleman) left 1000m behind in 1:05.6 and 600m in 39.2, while Unknown Pleasures (C Ormsby) took 1:12.8 and 40.3. Vibrant Moss (Holmes) was unextended over the same distance in 1:15.2 and 42.6. Gold Tiara (Sapsworth) and Secret Spirit (Umis) were timed from the 600m in 39.2.

On the sand, Rotorua Cup entries Smartly (K Jones) and Rose Of Virginia (Dowling) were paired over 1200m in 1:19, with the last 1000m in 1:04.8 and 600m in 37.8.

Flirty Gertey (Roff) prepared for Avondale on Friday with 1000m in 1:07.4 and 39, while Hysteria Lane (Coleman) caught the eye in her work over the same distance in 1:04.5 and 37.4.

Love Actually (Lammas) and Risque (Cameron) left 1000m behind in 1:06.8 and 38. Packing Chaparral (Wratten) and Irish Moon (Luke) were restricted to 1:09.8 and 41.8, while Vincent Street (Lammas) took 1:112.8 and 41.6.

Labels (Hillis) strode through 1200m in 1:18.8, 1:05.6 and 39 and Nathalie Falmet (Grylls) took 1:24.2, 1:08.5 and 38.2.

Jubilate (Sapsworth) was never at top over 1200m when clocking 1:31.8 and 45.2, likewise Osmunda (Cameron) returned 1:28.4 and 42, Star Of Greenbeel (Miller) 1:30.2 and 44.7 and Style Is Eternal (Grylls) 1:31.3 and 43.9.

Stella Di Paco (Grylls) and Tatters (Lammas) got through 1000m in 1:10.8 and 40.8. Mass Of Dash (Blair) looked bright when breezing over 1000 in 1:17.8 and 46.2.

On the all-weather track Letmego (Hillis) and Watch This Space (K Jones) cut out a smart 1000m in 1:04.5 and 36.6. Android (Sapsworth) and Letmeby (Grylls) were well held over 1200m in 1:25 and 42.3.

Angelica Hall confirmed a trip south in search of black type with impressive work in training at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on the outside of a heavy course proper, Angelica Hall (Lammas) stretched out boldly over 1000m in 1:08.8 and hit the line full of running after a final 600m in 38.4. The Jason Bridgman-trained mare was stakes-placed two starts back and will chase a Listed win in the Great Easter Stakes at Riccarton on Saturday.

Light Up A Screen (S Collett) underlined her fitness for Te Rapa on the weekend when she got through sound work over 1200m in 1:19.9, with the last 1000m in 1:05.6 and 600m in 39.6.

Agent Ziva (A Jones) was well held in the early stages of 1200m before cutting out the distance in 1:26.2, 1:08.3 and a smart 38.8 for the final section. After a luckless run at her last start she could be one to watch at Te Rapa.

Secret Power (P Holmes) and Elroy (Tynan) turned in a sound trial for Te Rapa with 1000m in 1:07 and 39.5, while Selene (Miller) and Sir Darcy (Roff) covered the same distance in 1:10.8 and 40.8.

Dubai Shuffle (Sapsworth) appeared at home in the conditions as he and Android (Grylls) strode over 1200m in 1:23.2, 1:08.7 and 40.2. Stablemates and fellow Te Rapa entries Brown Girl (Sapsworth) and Storm Bro (Grylls) were timed over 1000m in 1:09.8 and 40.6.

Miss Mossman (Grylls) turned in a good trial for her Te Rapa middle-distance assignment when hitting out boldly over 1200m in 1:24.7 and 39.2. Unknown Pleasures (C Ormsby) and Soul Sista (Dellow) had pace on from the 800m in 55.2 and 600m in 40.2.

Unsurpassed (Lammas) and Astrid (Zacsyed) cut out 1000m in 1:10.9 and 39.8, while Saoirse Fraser-Hayes) and Beauty Ace (Dowling) were well contained over the same ground in 1:13 and 42.8. Kinda Leica (Hutton) led Hold Your Tears (R Jones) at the end of 1200m in 1:28.4, 1:11.2 and 42.6.

Setarossa was ridden by her trainer Jim Collett in well contained work over 1200m in 1:29.4 and 44.2. Te Rapa entries She’s Elusive and Fascinate Me could not be timed due to poor light but hit the line strongly at the end of their gallop. 

On the all-weather track, Te Rapa entry Tronic Rose worked freely over the final 1200m of her work in 1:18.6, 1:04.1 and 38.6. She looks very bright and fit.

Smart staying mare Silk Chardonnay (A Jones) enjoyed the chance to step up her training when cutting out 1200m in 1:19.6, 1:05 and 38.4. She is scheduled to resume at Rotorua on Saturday week. In Memory Of (Tynan) got through 1000m in 1:12.8 and 600m in 40.5.

Form runners Irish Moon and Perfect Fit underlined their fitness for Te Rapa on the weekend when they were paired in a smart gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working on the all-weather track, Irish Moon (Luke) and Perfect Fit (Wratten) had pace on throughout 1000m, cutting out the distance in 1:00.2 and finishing off with 600m in a smart 35.3. The Kelso-trained pair are both in good order for feature events on the Cambridge Jockey Club programme, with Irish Moon chasing his fourth straight win in the open sprint and Perfect Fit a starter in the Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes.

Smartly (K Jones) and Nothing Trivial (Hunt) were also in good form when working over the final 1000m of their work in 1:02.1 and 600m in 36.2. Smartly runs in the Travis Stakes on Saturday, while her stablemate will step out in the Rating 75 2400-metre event.

Saoirse (Dowling) turned in a solid trial for the Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes when partnered by Beauty Moment (Fraser-Hayes) over 1000m in 1:00.9. No sectional times could be taken due to fog. Our King Sway (Schistl) was allowed a steadier 1000m workout in 1:09.5 and 38.8.

On the outside of the course proper, where the going was slow, Rockfast (Lammas) and Highly Likely (Hercock) drew attention to their weekend prospects with 1200m in 1:25.3, 1000m in 1:10.3 and 600m in 39.5. Rockfast will be on trial for a Queensland winter campaign when he resumes in the three-year-old 1600 at Te Rapa.

Makarska (Coleman) prepared for the Rating 85 1400 at Te Rapa with smart solo work over 1000m in 1:08.2 and 40.2. Kaleidoscope (Hong) went at an even rate over 1200m in 1:21.5, 1:07.2 and 39.8, while Irish (P Ormsby) was never at top over the same ground in 1:28.2, 1:13.2 and 44.

Mistrahma (Grylls) and Precision Miss (S Rika) were timed over 1000m in 1:09.2 and 40.2. She’s Elusive (R Jones) and Secret Spirit (Grylls) ran from the 800m in 54.6 and 40.1.

On the sand Queen Of Navarre (P McKay) Prepared for the Cambridge Breeders’ Stakes with 1000m in 1:07.3 and 600m in 48.2. Over the same ground Kinda Leica (K McQuade) and Hold Your Tears (H McQuade) had pace on through the early stages of 1000m in 1:04.2 and 600m in 41, while Fairy Cake (C Ormsby) and Style Is Eternal (Burton) returned 1:10.8 and 40.2.

Quintastics (Hutton) did sound work over ground in preparation for the R75 2400 at Te Rapa, cutting the last 1200m in 1:21.2, 1:07.4 and 39.8. Sniper (Grylls) and My Secrets (Amrut) ran 1000m in 1:07 and 40.5, Fascinate Me (Hong) returned 1:12.1 and 40, while Chantelle (A Jones) took 1:08.4 for her 1000m but fog prevented any sectional time.

Unsurpassed (Lammas), who runs at Te Rapa on Saturday, was kept to three-quarter-pace over 1000m in 1:16.6. Vitali (Hutton) ran in from the 800m in 53 and 39.8.                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Spellbinder drew attention to her Easter Handicap prospects when she relished slow conditions at Matamata this morning.

Working on the outside of the course proper with raceday rider Matt Cameron in the saddle, Spellbinder worked away from the 1200-metre mark to run the distance in 1:24.4, gradually picking up the tempo to cover the last 1000m in 1:09 and hitting the line strongly for a final 600m in 39.7. Spellbinder disappointed on a good track in the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes at Te Aroha, but judging by her work she could readily bounce back in Saturday’s big Ellerslie event.

Race rival Pussy O’Reilly (Wratten), a close up fourth in last year’s Easter Handicap, also worked impressively as she strode over 1200m in 1:22.3, 1:07.4 and 39.3, likewise finishing her work as if she could easily have gone faster.

Hawke’s Bay Cup duo Jubilate (Grylls) and Dubai Shuffle (Sapsworth) did well later in the session when they worked over ground and ran their last 1200m in 1:20.4, 1:06.8 and 39.8. Race rival The Fire Inside (C Ormsby) had first use of the track when she cut out 1200m in 1:20.8, 1:05.6 and 39.6.

Last start winner Whosyourmaster (Coleman) looked bright in his work over 1000m in 1:09.2 and 600m in 40.3. He will try for back-to-back wins in the feature sprint at Hastings on the weekend. Race rival Angelica Hall (Lammas) hit the line well after a smart 1000m in 1:08.8 and 38.2, while stablemate Costa Viva (Hercock) prepared for Hastings with 1000m in 1:11.4 and 39.8.

Orange Peel (R Jones) and Fascination Street (Amarut) prepared for Ellerslie with 1000m in 1:08.3 and 38.9, while Payday (K Jones) and Rough Copy (Hunt) ran the same distance in 1:09.8 and 41.8. Light Up A Screen (J Collett) handled the conditions well over 1000m in 1:08.6 and 40.6, as did Anuka (Sapsworth) when paired with Nectacolecta (Singh) over 1000m in 1:10.4 and 41.

Ellerslie candidate Muscat Hills (Grylls) was impressive in her work with Goshawk (R Jones) over 1200m in 1:21.4, 1:07.6 and 41.2. Hastings entries Nolawood (M Brosnan) and Apache Fireworks (P Ormsby) strode over the same distance in 1:24.2, 1:09.6 and 42.2.

Watch This Space (Hunt) and Vincent Street (K Jones) were timed over the last 800m of their work in 50.3 and 600m in 40.1. Miss Mossman (Grylls) and Etonett (Hutton) cut out 1000m in 1:07.3 and 39.7. Kaleidoscope (Amit) had pace on over 1000m in 1:07.5 and 39, while Nathalie Falmet (Amarut) returned 1:08.4 and 39.1.

Frock (Cameron) prepared for Dargaville on Friday by striding over 1200m in 1:27.8, 1:12.5 and 43.2. Over the same ground Osmunda (Roff) was restricted to 1:29.7, 1:15.5 and 45.4, while Flirty Gertey (Schistl) ran 1000m in 1:11.5 and 40.7.

On the all-weather track Lady Painton (Grylls) prepared for the Champagne Stakes at Ellerslie with smart work over 1000m in 1:05.8 and 36.8. Brigadier (P McKay) and Valante (J McKay) were timed over their last 800m in 55.2 and 41.8.

On the sand in-form pair Rose Of Virginia (Dowling) and Morena (Fraser-Hayes) did sound work over 1200m in 1:20.6, 1:06.1 and 39.5. Bahrella (A Jones) and Sharpshooter (Conder) had pace on throughout 1200m in 1:15.6, 1:04.8 and 37.5, while Pachenko (A Jones) and Panella (Conder) were timed over their last 1000m in 1:07.8 and 38.6. The Karen Fursdon-trained quartet will run at Dargaville on Friday.

Candidates for Saturday’s Fiber Fresh Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes were the centre of attention during trackwork at Matamata this morning, when fog hindered the timing of many gallops.

Working on the inside rail on a dead course proper, Spellbinder (Cameron) and Needlly (Dowling) worked away from the 1200-metre mark to cover the full distance in 1:16.1, 1000m in 1:00.9 and the final 600m in an impressive 35.2. It was excellent work by both mares as they bid to secure Group One form in the Te Aroha feature.

Pussy O’Reilly (Grylls) had pace on from the start of her gallop, with 1200m covered in a solid 1:13.6 and the last 1000m in 1:00.5. She was followed by stablemate Fix (Wratten), who did the same work in 1:13.8 and 1:00.6. Fog prevented any final section times but both Kelso-trained mares hit the line well.

Abidewithme (Lammas), who doubles up with Spellbinder for Jason Bridgman in the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes, also looked fit when she cut out 1200m in 1:19.3, quickening from the 1000m in 1:02.3 and running the final 600 in a smart 35.4. 

Remaining course proper gallops took place at the 28-metre mark, where Irish Moon (Coleman) and Kaleidoscope (Hutton) cut out 1000m in 1:04.6 and the final 600m in 37.2. Irish Moon takes excellent form into the Rating 85 sprint at Te Aroha, while Kaleidoscope is in good order for 1400-metre assignment at Hastings.

Lady Le Fay (Coleman) looked bright for her fresh-up Te Aroha run when she and Caduceus (Tynan) strode over 1200m in 1:24.9, quickening to run the last 1000m in 1:07.1 and 600mmin 37.8. Los Vargos (Sapsworth) prepared for Te Aroha when paired with Ellerslie Monday entrant Snapshot (Grylls) over 1000m in 1:04.4 and 38.7.

Hastings two-year-old candidate Fascinate Me (R Jones) looked the part when running 800m with My Smiley O’Reilly (Umis) in 49.9 and 600m in 37.6. Osmunda (Hercock), another for Hastings, hit the line well at the end of 1200m in 1:24.7, 1:09.5 and 39.5. Over the same ground Sonsy (Cameron) and Scandinavian (Lammas) returned 1:24.2, 1:08 and 38.6, while Apache Fireworks (P Ormsby) and Nolawood (M Brosnan) returned 1:19.5, 1:06.8 and 39.6.

Flaming (Hercock) and Darci’s Dream (Schistl), rivals in the Te Aroha three-year-old 1400, worked well as they strode over 1200m in 1:21.6, 1:06.7 and 38.3. Green Easy (S Collett) ran the same distance in 1:23.5, 1:07.8 and 39.2.

In other work, Rough Copy (Grylls) caught they eye when working on the sand over 1200m in 1:17.1, the last 1000m with Vincent Street (Hunt) in 1:02.7. No final sectional times could be taken, nor for the all-weather gallops by Antonio Lombardo (S McKay) and Al Pacino (P McKay), who ran 1000m in 1:05.2, and Agent Ziva (A Jones), who was restricted to 1000m in 1:13.4.

Aotearower looked ready for a step up in class at Awapuni this weekend when she galloped stylishly at Matamata this morning.

Galloping solo on the plough with raceday rider Michael Coleman on board, Aotearower had pace on from the 1200-metre mark, running that distance in 1:18.3, 1000m in 1:03.2 and the final 600m in 36.8. The Kelso-trained filly has thrived since her deserved maiden win and gets the chance for black-type form in Saturday’s Manawatu Classic.

Strata Lady (Hong) and Irish Encore (Grylls) underlined their Awapuni feature race prospects with smart work over 1000m in 1:01.6 and 600m in 36.2. Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes entry Strata Lady has looked sharp with blinkers fitted since her Diamond Stakes fifth.

Jubilate (Sapsworth) drew attention to his weekend prospects when he worked impressively over ground with Speedy Jax (E Rika), cutting out the last 1200m in 1:18.8, 1:04.5 and 37.3. Jubilate will be an interesting runner when he steps up to a middle-distance in the Awapuni Gold Cup. 

Stablemates Deema (Sapsworth) and Douro (E Rika) looked ready for Rotorua on Friday when they left 1200m behind in 1:19.2, 1:04 and 37.4. Over the same ground Awapuni form runner Quintastics (Umis) began steadily to record 1:22.6 and quickened impressively for a final 600m in 35.6.

Awapuni open sprint entry Angelica Hall (Lammas) was travelling sweetly at the end of 1000m in 1:03.8 and 60m in 35.9. Fortune Road (J Collett) was also in good form running 1000m in 1:01.7 and 36.6, while Always On My Mind (Leveque) and Beauty Moment (Dowling) impressed with a solid 1200m in 1:14.7, 1:01.9 and 36.3.

Perfect Fit (Coleman) was paired with Sombreuil (Luke) in a tidy gallop over 1000m in 1:02.4 and 37. Gardone (M Brosnan) and Moneymakehersmile (P Ormsby) ran the same trip in 1:04.7 and 38.6, while Rotorua runners Stralis (Hutton) and Sniper (Coleman) took 1:02 and 36.4 and Ambitious Power (Dowling) and Saoirse (Fraser-Hayes) 1:03.5 and 37.   

Tiara Concerto (Grylls) and Funhouse (Sapsworth) were timed over 1000m in 1:05.9 and 36.7. Pussy O’Reilly (Wratten), who is being aimed at the New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes on Saturday week, was kept to three-quarter-pace over 1200m in 1:28.8 and 42.6.

Costa Viva (Cameron) was well held in the early stages of her work as she strode over 1200m in 1:25.5, quickening over 1000m in 1:08.3 and 600m in 38. Stablemate Rockfast (Hercock) was slightly quicker in similar work over 1200m in 1:22.4, 1:06.6 and 38.

Arterial (P Ormsby) and Free And Bold (M Brosnan) did well over 1000m in 1:04.5 and 36.7. Living The Dream (Sapsworth) travelled up strongly at the end of her 1000m in 1:05.3 and 37. Rotorua entry Hardlee (A Jones) ran over the same ground in 1:06.6 and 38.6, Irish Heartbeat (Cole) returned 1:07.4 and 39, and Sharpshooter (A Jones) 1:09.2 and 41.

Galvanised (Dowling) and Morena (Fraser-Hayes) were not after time over 1200m in 1:23, 1:09.4 and 41.4, while Riddle (Wright) took 1:24.8, 1:06.2 and 38.9, Frock (Cameron) 1:25.8, 1:09.6 and 40.3, and Light Up A Screen (S Collett) 1:21, 1:04.9 and 36.8. Saint Finn (Grylls) and a Showcasing-Zafonique colt (C Ormsby) were timed over 800m in 58.3 and 42.7. 

Queens Rose looked ready for a bold fresh-up run at Tauranga on the weekend when she worked boldly at Matamata this morning.

Galloping 25 metres out on a slow course proper, Queens Rose (Sapsworth) worked away steadily from the 1000m mark and ran the distance in 1:09.1, quickening readily for a final 600m in 38.8. The Graham Richardson-trained mare has an excellent first-up record and with track conditions to suit she will be hard to beat in Saturday’s open sprint.

Form runners Fascination Street (Amrut) and Orange Peel (Grylls) looked sharp for Tauranga as they cut out 1000m in 1:09.6 and 600 in 401. Over the same ground Kaleidoscope (Mann) returned 1:09.4 and 40.

Flaming (Cameron) and Imperium (Lammas) signalled their prospects with sound work over 1200m in 1:25.1, 1:07.9 and 38. Tauranga entry Muscat Hills (A Jones) wore blinkers when he and Sharp Shooter (Schistl) cut out a solid 1200m in 1:20.9, 1:04.8 and 38.5. Over the same ground Chaos (P Ormsby) took 1:23.4, 1:08.9 and 39.2, while Osmunda (Cameron) ran the trip in 1:25.5, 1:09.6 and 40.5.

Tiara Concerto (Sapsworth) reacted well to blinkers when working with De Chine (Grylls) over 1000m in 1:06.4 and 38.5. Northern Star (Mann) had pace on when covering 1200m in 1:18.8, 1:04.2 and 600m in 38.8, while Stralis (Hutton) and Miss Mossman (Olwagen) did similar work over 1200m in 1:19.2, 1:04.9 and 39.5.

Rockfast (Lammas) was allowed to quicken from the 800m in 58.4, finishing off with 600m in 42.8.

On the sand Smartly (Hillis) shaded Supercharged (K Jones) at the end of a solid 1200m in 1:16.6, 1:03 and 36.8. Smartly runs in the Japan-New Zealand Trophy at Tauranga, while Supercharged is being aimed at the Oakbank jumps carnival at Easter.

Silverdale, a rival for Smartly at Tauranga, was ridden by his trainer Stephen Autridge in tidy work over 1000m in 1:07.2 and 38.8. Tauranga entries Antonio Lombardo (S McKay) and Al Pacino (P McKay) cut out 1000m in 1:04.8 and 36.5.

Impatient Dreams (H McQuade) was timed over 1000m in 1:11.2 and 41.9, while Panella (A Jones) did striding work over 1200m in 1:29.2 and 42.8.

Perfect Fit and Fascination Street looked the part for Ellerslie on Saturday when they got through stylish work at Matamata this morning.

On a good plough, Perfect Fit (Coleman) and Fascination Street (Amrut) were impressive as they cut out 1000m in 1:00.6 and the final 600m in 34.8. It was good work by any measure.

Fascination Street is in the right order to cap a run of placings in Saturday’s R75 1200, while Perfect Fit, who looked good at last week’s local trials, runs in the Rating 65 sprint.

Puccini (P McKay) looked on target for his Melbourne campaign when he worked with Ellerslie entry Donny Brasco (S McKay), cutting out their last 1000m in 1:02.4 and 36.2. Puccini is scheduled to fly to Melbourne this weekend before lining up in the Australian Cup on Saturday week.

Diamond Stakes runners Strata Lady (Coleman) and Link Road (Grylls) turned in a tidy piece of work, 800m in 48.6 and 600m in 35.1.

Apache Fireworks (M Brosnan) and Chaos (P Ormsby) prepared for Ellerslie with solid work over 1200m in 1:16.6, 1:02.4 and 37.3. Rose Of Virginia (Grylls) underlined her fitness for the weekend with 1200m in 1:18.2, 1:03.4 and 37.7.

Ellerslie candidate Speedy Jax (Sapsworth) was paired with Hawera Monday entry Ratmansky (S Collett) over 1200m in 1:20.2, 1:05.8 and 37.2. Astrid (Hercock) and Maestro (Schistl) were in dashing form over 1200m in 1:15.4, 1:00.9 and 35.3.

Always On My Mind (R Jones) and Needlly (Fraser-Hayes) looked bright in their work over 100m in 1:02 and 36.7. Costa Viva (Hercock) and Flirty Gertey (Schistl) underlined their progress with a smart 1000m in 1:02.4 and 35.8. 

Promising maiden Goshawk (Rastrick) turned in good work over 1200m in 1:16, 1:02.4 and 36.9. Over the same ground Douro (Grylls) and Lucky To Be Cool (E Rika) returned 1:17.4, 1:03.8 and 37, Highly Likely (Roff) 1:27.2, 1:11.2 and 40.9, Setarossa (J Collett) and Light Up A Screen (S Collett) 1:24.1, 1:06.5 and 37.8, and Mikmoto (Stacey) 1:25.9, 1:10.7 and 41.6.

Puzzlente (K McQuade) and Impatient Dreams (H McQuade) did well over 1000m in 1:01.8 and 36.2, while Atua (Hercock) caught the eye running a smart 1:02.4 and 35.6.

Massale (C Ormsby) prepared for Ellerslie with a steadier 1000m in 1:09.7 and 39.5, Sharp Shooter (A Jones) and Our Mystere (M Gibbs) took 1:07.2 and 38.4, Imperium (Lammas) and Bordeaux (Ritchie) 1:08 and 38.6, and Frock (Hercock) 1:06 and 39.6.

On the all-weather track, Rough Copy (Grylls) and Phoebe Snow (S McKay) cut out a slick 1000m in 1:01.8 and 35.8. Rough Copy won well at last week’s trials and is one to watch at Ellerslie on Saturday. Phoebe Snow, who has shown up at the trials, is a sister to classy racemare I Do.

 Vettel (Schistl) and Jimmy Hoffa (S McKay) also wasted no time in their work over 1200m in 1:13.6, 1:00.4 and 36.2.

Margin Trader was the star trackworker amongst New Zealand Derby candidates when he turned in an impressive solo gallop at Matamata this morning.

Ridden by co-trainer Chad Ormsby on the course proper, which was dead 12 metres out, Margin Trader set off at an even rate over ground, picking up the tempo to run his last 1200m in 1:21.9, 1000m in 1:07.1 and quickening readily for a final 600m in 37.1.

The Tavistock gelding was disappointing in his final Derby lead-up 10 days ago but he looks a happier horse with blinkers removed and will strip at peak fitness on Saturday.

Race rival Gaultier had raceday jockey Michael Coleman in the saddle when he and Capone (N Waddell) completed their work with 1000m in 1:06 and the final 600m in a smart 36.6. Gaultier’s form since his Levin Classic upset has been mixed but his condition cannot be faulted.

McQueen did his Derby preparation on the sand, where he was ridden by his trainer Jim Collett in company with Massofdash (S Collett), covering 1200m in 1:18.4, 1000m in 1:05.2 and 600m in 37.8. McQueen has continued to make pleasing progress, while Massofdash looks ready for a bold effort in the Lowland Stakes at Hastings, where she will be ridden by Cameron Lammas.

Back on the courser proper, the O’Sullivan-Scott stable’s Lowland pair of Suffire and Mary Quant got through solid work. Suffire (Holmes) was paired with Quintastics (Hong) over 1200m in 1:16.5, 1:03.2 and 36.7, while Mary Quant (Olwagen) tracked her stablemates over the same ground in 1:15.7, 1:03.3 and 37.

Dream Run (K Shailer), another for the Lowland Stakes, got through her work well with 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:05.1 and 36.9. Over the same ground race rival Hayley Anne (A Jones) returned 1:15.9, 1:01.6 and 37.8.

Stablemates No Tricks (Cameron) and Flaming (Hercock) prepared for Saturday’s Mr Tiz Trophy with a smart gallop over 1000m in 1:02.4 and 600m in 36.7. Whosyourmaster (Coleman) ran a good trial for the Darley Plate when he cut out 1000m in 1:03.7 and 600m in 36.8.

Stablemate and race rival Pure Champion (R Jones) had an easier time over the same ground in 1:06.5 and 37.7. He has freshened up nicely for the drop back in distance.

Nathan’s Memorial entry Quest (M Brosnan) set off over ground and was joined by Gardone (P Ormsby) to run 1200m in 1:20, 1:06.2 and 38.6. Ellerslie first day candidates Los Vargos (Rhodes) and Always On My Mind (R Jones) left 1000m behind in 1:05.2 and 37.1.

On the sand Mr Tiz Trophy entry Red Striker (S Collett) was travelling strongly at the end of 1000m in 1:05.6 and 37.2, while Stella’s Honour (C Ormsby) prepared for the weekend with easy work over the same ground in 1:08.3 and 39.2.

Auckland Cup candidate Graphic was given striding work by his co-trainer Chad Ormsby, timed over the last 1000m in 1:16.8 and 600m in 45.2. A decision on big race riders for him and stablemate Surpass has yet to be made. Vicar’s Daughter (J Collett) was let off with 1000m in 1:13.8 and 600m in 40.6.

On the all-weather track, Antonio Lombardo (P McKay), Oblivion (S Collett) and Al Pacino (S McKay) were matched up over 1000m in 1:04.2 and 36.

Lucky Feather (Goodwin) hit out strongly over 1200m in 1:16.4, 1:02.5 and 36.6. Only A Rose (A Jones) showed her usual dash when cutting out 1000m in 1: 02.3 and 35.9, while Vincent Street (Hunt) also showed dash to return 1:02.8 and 35.6.

Pussy O’Reilly (Wratten) continued her preparation for next Wednesday’s Westbury Classic with 1000m in 1:06.4 and 36.2, while stablemate Fix (Wratten), who is on the same mission, ran the same distance in 1:08.2 and 39.4.

Abidewithme (Cameron) worked easily over 1000m in 1:11.3 and 41.2, Maestro (Cameron) ran in from the 800m in 53.8 and 39.4, and Angelica Hall (Cameron) completed the same task in 53.4 and 38.7.

Aotearower (Wratten), who will run next in either the Lowland Stakes on Saturday or the Sunline Vase on the second day at Ellerslie, strode over 1200m in 1:25.9, 1:10.4 and 39.8.

Matamata Breeders’ Stakes candidates Strata Lady, Special Memories and Fame Seeker all worked well this morning as they prepared for Saturday’s home track feature.

On a good plough, Strata Lady (R Jones) was partnered by Link Road (Hong) over a smart 800m in 48.8 and hitting the line strongly after a final 600m in 36.3. Strata Lady has progressed well from her handy effort in the Karaka Million and looks well primed for the big fillies’ race. Link Road has also pleased connections since his recent Te Rapa win and gets his chance on the weekend in the Reid & Harrison Slipper.

Special Memories (Hercock) was paired with Prize Lord (Olwagen) in a steady 800m, covering the distance in 54.5 and finishing off with an unextended 600m in 37.2. The Fastnet Rock filly has done everything right since her last-start win and promises a big effort on Saturday.

Fame Seeker (Lammas) and Needlly (Dowling) turned in smart work on the course proper rail, where the going was just in the dead range, cutting out 1000m in 1:01.2 and getting home over the final 600m in 35. It was very good work by the Lance Noble-trained pair. Fame Seeker, a filly by Showcasing, finished a handy fifth in her only start to date and will be entered for the Breeders’ Stakes, while Needlly runs in the open sprint on Saturday.

Surpass (Coleman) and Rose Of Virginia (Dowling), rivals on Saturday in the Kaimai Stakes, did sound work 18 metres out on the course proper, where they ran their last 1200m in 1:16.9, 1000m in 1:03.5 and 600m in 36.7. Caduceus (McNab) prepared fore the weekend when paired with Sworntomylover (Tynan) over 1000m in 1:06.2 and 600m in 38.8.

On the all-weather track, Puccini (P McKay) worked in company with Oblivion (S McKay) and Al Pacino (J McKay), running their last 1000m in 1:04.2 and picking up the tempo for a final 600m in 36.2. Puccini is in good order for the Haunui Farm Classic at Otaki on Saturday.

Back on the plough, Breeders’ Stakes entry Starstripe (McNab) worked well without being extended over 1000m in 1:06 and 37.2. The attractive Moroney-Ormsby-trained filly finished third on debut recently.

In-form pair Smarts Encosta (Coleman) and Irish Encore (P Holmes) worked well together over 1000m in 1:02 and 600m in 35.9, while Tomorrowland (Coleman), a rival for Irish Encore in Saturday’s open sprint, ran the same distance solo in 1:03.2 and 36. Spellbinder (Cameron), who resumes in the same race, worked well with Osmunda (Hercock) over 1000m in 1:03.2 and 35.7.

Sworntoperfection (Tynan) caught they eye over 1200m in 1:18.4, 1:02.6 and 35.6, while He’s Dan (Cole) ran the same trip in 1:19.4, 1:05.1 and 37.8, Massofdash (Blair) took 1:25.9, 1:10.4 and 41.3, and Chaos (M Brosnan) 1:20.8, 1:05.6 and 38.5.

Starbux (J Collett) prepared for the weekend with an unextended 1000m in 1:05.6 and 38.5, while Orange Peel (Hutton) and Irish Moon (Coleman) cut out 1000m in 1:03.4, with no sectional times possible due to fog. Equanimity (Cameron) and a Saperavi gelding (Hercock) returned 1:05.9 and 37.8, Whosyourmaster (Hong) was kept to 1:15.2 and 44.6, Duran (Lammas) and Gushed (Zac-Sayed) took 1:06 and 37.9, Skyscraper (Richards) 1:11.9 and 42.6, She’s Samashing (T Johnson) and That’s How We Roll (Dellow) 1:08.5 and 37.8, Costa Viva (Lammas) 1:14 and 43.7, and Saoirse (Dowling) 1:11.4 and 40.6.

On the all-weather track, Irish Heartbeat (Goodwin) cut out 1000m in 1:05 and 38.2, while stablemates Lucky Feather (Goodwin) and Ali (S McKay) covered 1200m in 1:20.6 and the last 600m in 39.5.

Avondale Guineas candidates Margin Trader, McQueen and Gaultier got through their work well at Matamata this morning as they prepared for Saturday’s all-important New Zealand Derby lead-up.

Galloping on a good plough and ridden by co-trainer Chad Ormsby, Margin Trader was partnered by Graphic (Grylls) in solid work over ground, recording 1:16.9 for the last 1200m, 1:02.1 for 1000m and 35.4 for the final 600m. Margin Trader hit the line strongly as he edged ahead of his workmate over the final stages, giving the impression he is ready for a big effort in Saturday’s Ellerslie feature.

Race rival McQueen had his trainer Jim Collett in the saddle as he and stablemate Massofdash (S Collett) strode over ground, cutting out 1200m in 1:16.9, 1000m in 1:02.8 and 600m in 36.8. They hit the line hard and took until the end of the back straight to pull up. McQueen has trained on well from his unlucky fourth in the Waikato Guineas, while Massofdash will be chasing a hat-trick this weekend in the three-year-old fillies’ feature at New Plymouth. 

Gaultier (Coleman) worked solo and was timed over 1200m in 1:21.8, 1:05.2 and 36.5, flattening out well when asked to quicken over the final stages. He appears to have come through his luckless Waikato Guineas run in good order.

Sound Proposition (Coleman) also went by himself, gradually building momentum with 1200m in 1:23, 1000m in 1:04.3 and the last 600m in 37.3. He will be an interesting runner in his step up to top three-year-old company.

Yet another Avondale Guineas entry, Rockfast (Miller), was let off with striding work over 1200m in 1:29.8 and 44.3, having run time in smart work last Friday.

Silk Chardonnay (A Jones), a lightweight prospect for Saturday’s Avondale Cup, got through solid work when cutting out her last 1200m in 1:13.5, 1000m in 1:01 and 600m in 37.2. Dubai Shuffle (Grylls), another vying for a start in the Avondale Cup, looked bright in his work over the same ground in 1:16.6, 1:01.9 and 35.7.

Jubilate (Rika) and Storm Bro (Rhodes) caught the eye over 1200m in 1:16.6, 1:02.2 and 36.4, while Marcelle (R Jones) and High Viz (A Jones) prepared for Te Aroha on Friday with 1200m in 1:16.2, 1:01.9 and 36.5. Beauty Ace (Grylls), another for Te Aroha, was paired with Gisborne entrant Odin’s Choice (A Jones) for a smart 1000m in 1:02 and 35.8.

Silverdale was ridden by trainer Stephen Autridge as he prepared for the Taranaki Cup with1200m in 1:23.2, 1:07.5 and 39. He looks bright and can turn his form around on Saturday.

Purcentage (Grylls) drew attention to her Ellerslie prospects when leaving 1000m behind in 1:06.5 and 38, while Bahrella (A Jones) and Panella (Grant) covered 1200m in a smart 1:15.6, 1:01.2 and 36. Beauty Giant (Dowling) was well contained over the same ground in 1:27.6, 1:10.2 and 39.9, Nolawood (Roff) and Sharp Shooter (Grant) took 1:19.2, 1:03.7 and 36.2, Ali (Cole) 1:23.6, 1:08.5 and 40.2,  Wraithorth (Leveque) 1:22.2, 1:07.6 and 39.6, and Moneymakehersmile (R Jones) 1:19.6, 1:04.3 and 37.2.

Tiara Concerto (Rika) and Ratmansky (Rhodes) covered 1000m in 1:06.6 and 38.7, Light Up A Screen (S Collett) took 1:06.2 and 37.8, Smartly (Hillis) 1:05.6 and 38.8, Agent Ziva (A Jones) 1:09.8 and 41.2, Saoirse (Fraser-Hayes) 1:06.2, 38.8; Unsurpassed (Cameron) 1:16.6, 44.2.

Centre Stage (R Jones) left 1200m behind in 1:24.2, 1:07.9 and 38.8, while Sacred Trust (Rika) and Speedy Jax (Rhodes) took 1:22.6, 1:07.4 and 39.4. Sherpa (Retter) ran in from the 800m in 49.6 and 35.8, Taaxman (Gillies) ran the same trip in 56.8 and 42.2, and Darci’s Dream (Cameron) returned 56.5 and 41.2.  

Surpass prepared for Saturday’s Herbie Dyke Stakes with an impressive gallop at Matamata this morning.

Working 25 metres out on the course proper, where the going was dead, Surpass was ridden by co-trainer Chad Ormsby as he went over ground in company with fellow Te Rapa entry That’s How We Roll (Coleman). The pair had momentum up for the last 1200m, running that distance in 1:18.4, 1000m in 1:04.9 and the final 600m in 38.5.

Surpass will be stepping into unknown territory in Saturday’s weight-for-age feature, but with a Waikato Gold Cup win on the track in December to his credit, he must rate some chance. Opie Bosson will continue his association on the Savabeel gelding, who is under consideration for the Auckland Cup.

Pussy O’Reilly (K Jones) looked ready for a bold effort in the NRM Sprint when she worked solo against the rail in the eight-metre position. She returned 1:15.3 for 1200m, quickening as she went to cut out the last 1000m in 1:01.1 and the final 600m in a smart 35.6. Noel Harris has been booked for Saturday’s big sprint.

Back between the markers out wide, the Moroney-Ormsby pair Spitfire Lady (McNab) and The Last Shower (C Ormsby) prepared for Friday’s Wairarapa Breeders’ Stakes with 1200m in 1:20.7, 1:05.1 and 37.8, a sound effort late in the session.

Irish Encore (Wong) and Stella’s Honour (C Ormsby) looked sharp for the weekend as they cut out 1000m in 1:06.4 and 37.6.

Spellbinder (Hercock) and Angelica Hall (Lammas) also did well in their work over 1200m in 1:21.4, 1:05.8 and 37.7, while Te Rapa two-year-old candidate Starstripe (McNab) and Unknown Pleasures (C Ormsby) completed 1000m in 1:08.3 and 37.5.

Perfect Fit (Coleman) and Aura d’Oro (K Jones) were not after time as they prepared for Sunday’s local meeting with 1000m in 1:10.8 and 40.2. Perfect Fit has trained on pleasingly since her impressive Taupo debut win. Stablemate Aotearower (K Jones), who runs in the special maiden at Te Rapa, strode over 1200m in 1:27.3, 1:10.7 and 39.8.

Element (McNab) a Stravinsky two-year-old in the Shailer stable with wins in his two trials, went with Saraswati (Tynan) over 1000m in 1:06.8 and 39.2. Elusive Unicorn (Leveque) and Little Miss Waitoki (Dowling) ran the same trip in 1:07.9 and 38.8, Alchemy’s Flight (Miller) took 1:11 and 40.2, and Lucky To Be Cool (Sapsworth) and Los Vargos (Rhodes) 1:06.4 and 38.8.

Sonsy (Lammas) prepared for the Sir Tristram Fillies’ Classic in company with Bronte Lass, cutting out a sound 1200m in 1:19.4, 1:05.2 and 38. Green Easy (Sapsworth) was unextended as he covered the same ground in 1:20.5, 1:06.6 and 39.3, while Giardini (Hong) took 1:22.6, 1:08.4 and 39.5.

Northern Star (R Jones) completed 1000m in 1:09.5 and 41.6, while Living The Dream (Sapsworth) strode over 1200m in 1:25, 1:09.5 and 39.5. Realta (Leveque) and Morena (Dowling) covered 1200m in 1:20.2, 1:06.4 and 39. Rockfast (Miller), who runs next in the Avondale Guineas, was allowed striding work, with the last 1200m in 1:34.5 and 600m in 45.8.

On the all-weather track Perfect Start (Hillis) looked bright as she ran the last 1000m of her work 1:05.2 and 600m in 37.2. She runs next in the Avondale Cup on the way to the Auckland Cup.

Stablemates Rough Copy (Hillis) and an Elusive City gelding (Hunt) were timed over their last 800m in 50.2 and 36.6. In A Frenzy (Tynan) was kept to 1:11 and 41.3 over 1000m, while Woodsman (Gillies) had more pace on as he returned 1:06.8 and 39.6.

On the sand I’ll’ava’alf  (A Jones) covered the last 1000m of his work in 1:08.4 and 40.4, O’Reilly’s Gold (P Brosnan) took 1:05 and 38.2, and Hayley Anne (Coleman) covered 1200m in 1:18.3, 1:05.1 and 39.8. Settarossa (J Collett) and Light Up A Screen (S Collett) were restricted to 1:13.5 and 41.8 over 1000m.

McQueen underlined his prospects for Saturday’s Waikato Guineas with a bold workout at Matamata this morning.

On a good plough trainer Jim Collett took McQueen over ground, quickening from the 1200-metre mark and hitting the line strongly after covering the full distance in 1:15.6, the last 1000m in 1:01.7 and 600m in 36.1.

The Alamosa gelding will be an interesting runner in the Te Rapa three-year-old feature as he bids to complete a hat-trick in his first start beyond 1600 metres.

Race rival Gaultier (Coleman) was not asked for a lot as he strolled over ground, with 1200m in 1:29.4 and quickening slightly for a final 1000m in 1:12.3 and 600m in 41.2. Gaultier has come through his upset win in the Levin Classic in pleasing condition and like McQueen, can advance his New Zealand Derby prospects with another big effort on the weekend.

Irish Heartbeat (Goodwin) was another form runner to confirm her fitness for Te Rapa as she strode over 1200m in 1:18.6, 1:04 and 38.2. Fifty Shades Of Grey (Hong) and Quintastics (Amit) looked sharp for Te Rapa when paired over 1000m in 1:02.4 and 36.2.

Muscat Hills (A Jones) and Harry Claassen (Swann) completed sound work over 1200m in 1:19, 1:02.9 and 36.1, while Great Expectations (Sapsworth) and Fame Seeker (Grylls), two-year-old entrants for New Plymouth on Friday and Te Rapa respectively, shaped up well over 1000m in 1:06.4 and 37.2.

What’s Occurring (Hillis) prepared for Te Rapa with 1000m in 1:05.5 and 37.6, while Persuasive (Coleman) looked bright in her work over 1200m in 1:23, 1:06.5 and 37.4. Mass Of Dash (S Collett), another for Te Rapa, was unextended over 1200m in 1:27.8, 1:10.4 and 40.2.

Iffitel (Cole) and Kittykittybangbang (S McKay) ran 1000m in 1:06.6 and 37.4, while over the same distance Vegas Fling (Rhodes) and All Razzle Dazzle (Sapsworth) returned 1:08.4 and 40.2. 

Tomorrowland (Coleman) was well held as he rounded off his work with 800m in 50.8 and 600m in 37.6. He appears to have taken no harm from his Telegraph outing. Spitfire Lady (Grylls), another beaten runner from the Telegraph, was kept to 1200m in 1:28.6 and 600m in 43.4. In similar work Pussy O’Reilly (K Jones) returned 1:26.4 and 39.2 as she prepared for next week’s NRM Sprint.

Surpass was ridden by co-trainer Chad Ormsby in striding work over 1200m in 1:32.5 and 45.4. He will run in the Herbie Dyke Stakes on Saturday week with a view to a late entry for the Auckland Cup. Living The Dream (Sapsworth) was another kept to striding work, cutting out 1200m in 1:26.8 and 40.9.

On the all-weather track Lucky Feather (Goodwin) prepared for Te Rapa with 1000m in 1:05.4 and 37.6.

Graphic confirmed his readiness for back-to-back Wellington Cup wins when raceday rider Rory Hutchings partnered him in a solid gallop at Matamata this morning.

With first use of the plough, Graphic set off over ground and increased the tempo from the 1200-metre mark before picking up stablemate Massale (C Ormsby) for a slick final 1000m. Graphic covered the full distance in 1:16.2, with the 1000m together in 1:00.8 and final 600m in 36.3. 

Graphic has gone on the right way since his last-start second and is the logical favourite for a second Platinum Homes Wellington Cup success. Massale will also travel south with the three-year-old sprint on his schedule.

Thorndon Mile candidate Pure Champion was ridden by co-trainer Lance O’Sullivan in impressive work on the course proper, which provided perfect footing 10 metres out. The last-start winner gradually increased speed to cover the distance in 1:16.4, the last 1000m in 1:02.3 and the final section in a deceptive 35.7.

Fellow trainer Stephen Autridge also raised his leathers to partner Silverdale in his final serious Thorndon Mile work, cutting out 1000m on the plough in 1:03.8 and 36.7. Silverdale likewise has trained on well from his Hastings win on New Year’s Day.

Puccini, another for the Trentham Group One feature, was handled as usual by co-trainer Peter McKay when partnering Joey Massino (S McKay) over 1000m, beginning steadily before winding up to run the full distance in 1:07.4 and the final 600m in 36.6.

The centre’s fourth Thorndon candidate, Abidewithme, had raceday jockey Matt Cameron up when partnering Desert Gold Stakes entry Vive La Difference (Hercock) over 1200m in 1:22.8, 1:07.1 and 38.2. The Bridgman pair hit the line full of running.

Strata Lady (Coleman) drew attention to her Karaka Million prospects with smart work in company with Orange Peel (Amit) over 800m in 48.4 and 600m in 35.8. Strata Lady, who will be ridden by James McDonald in Sunday’s big juvenile race, appears to have thrived in the month since her debut win.

Silk Chardonnay (A Jones), a form runner for the Summer Cup at Trentham, had a solid hitout over 1200m in 1:18.3, 1:04.9 and 39.5, while likely race rival Dubai Shuffle (Sapsworth) did good work over the same ground in 1:17.8, 1: 02.8 and 36.2.

Caduceus (McNab) looked bright for his return to racing at Trentham when he cut out 1000m in 1:03.2 and 36.

Impressive last-start winner Sound Proposition (Coleman) prepared for Ellerslie on Sunday with 1200m in 1:21.8, the last 1000m in 1:04.6 and 600m in 36.8. Attention Seeker (R Jones) and Northern Star (P Holmes) had pace on throughout 1000m in 1:02.6 and 36.2. Attention Seeker runs in the Desert Gold Stakes, while her stablemate is entered for Avondale on Friday.

Dream Run (McNab) prepared for the Desert Gold with an easy 1000m in 1:09.2, hitting the line hard off a 38.1 final section.

Wraithorth (Leveque) and Always On My Mind (Dowling) took 1:04 and 37.7 for 1000m, while Pussy O’Reilly (K Jones) was unextended in 1:10.6 and 39.4, Equanimity (Cameron) and Sequitur (Hercock) took 1:07.2 and 39, and Hayley Anne (Coleman) 1:04.6 and 37.2.

High Viz (Grant), who runs at Te Teko on Monday, was timed over 1000m in 1:05.6 and 600m in 38.2, while Immaculate Lady (K Price) and a Time Thief gelding (J Price) ran the same distance in a well contained 1:09.6 and 41.6.

Chaos (Roff) and Flash Harry (M Brosnan) strode through 1200m in 1:19.4, 1:04.1 and 37.6. Over the same ground Ali (Goodwin) returned 1:25.5, 1:09.3 and 40.8, and Adequate (C Ormsby) took 1:29.8, 1:13.3 and 43.9.

Karaka 3YO Mile entry Rockfast (Miller) was restricted to 1200m in 1:27.6, 1:12.6 and 43. In similar work Green Easy (Sapsworth) took 1:28.3, 1:12.5 and 43.2.

Perfect Fit (K Jones) and an O’Reilly filly (Luke) were also let off with three-quarter-pace work, strolling over 1000m in 1:17.2 and 600m in 45.1. Perfect Fit, an impressive debut winner at Taupo, is scheduled to have her next start at the local meeting on February 8.

On the all-weather track Woodsman (T Gillies) prepared for a possible Ellerslie twilight start with a smart 1000m in 1:02.6 and 36.2.

McQueen and Aotearower signalled their fitness for pending engagements with smart work at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on a good plough, McQueen (J Collett) and Aotearower (K Jones) were well matched over 1200m, running the full distance in 1:16.6 and quickening for a final 1000m in 1:01.5 and 600m in 35.3. It was very good work by the promising three-year-olds.

McQueen, who cleared maiden grade at his last start, will run in the 1500-metre age group event at Ellerslie on Saturday, while Aotearower should enjoy the step up to 1600 metres at Tauranga on Friday.

Living The Dream (Sapsworth) put in a good trial for the open sprint at Ellerslie when she cut out 1000m in 1:02.6 and 600m in 36. Agent Ziva (A Jones), another for Ellerslie, did sound work over the same distance in 1:02.2 and 35.7.

Graphic (C Ormsby), who will have his final lead-up to the Wellington Cup at Ellerslie on the weekend, was allowed easy work, finishing off with 600m in 40.2. Lightweight Telegraph entry Fix (K Jones) was unextended over 1000m in 1:06.3 and 37.2.

Spellbinder (Miller) was paired with recent two-year-old trial winner Special Memories (Roff) for a tidy 1000m in 1:04.3 and 600m in 36.4. Stablemates Enshrine (Hercock) and Angelica Hall (Miller) covered the same distance in 1:03.4 and 36.2, while Wolfwhistle (Roff) and Longbeach (Miller) strode over 1200m in 1:17.2, quickening for a final 1000m in 1:02.4 and 600m in 36.

On the course proper, which was dead 18 metres out, Ellerslie two-year-old candidate Great Expectations (Grylls) caught the eye when working with Laseef (Sapsworth) over 1000m in 1:07.6 and 600m in 37.7. Great Expectations, an O’Reilly filly with Graham Richardson, has been placed in her two trials.

Also on the grass, Caduceus (P Holmes) completed sound work over 1000m in 1:07.5 and 600m in 37.5. A stakes-winning two-year-old last season, he is making good progress towards a scheduled start on the final day of the Trentham carnival.

Back on the plough, Smarts Encosta (Grylls) and Irish Encore (J Wong) prepared for Awapuni on Saturday with 1000m in 1:03 and 37.1. Smart Encosta, an impressive debut winner in November, is now with Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott.

Irish did well with trainer Mark Brosnan up to cut out 1000m in 1:01.4 and 36.2, while Peacefuleasyfeelin (M Gibbs) and Diamond Refusal (Swann) had a solid hitout over 1200m in 1:16.6, 1:02.3 and 35.8.

Swansong (Grylls) and Beauty Moment (R Jones) did sound work over 1000m in 1:02.3 and 600m in 36.1. Fiftyshadesofgrey (Hutton) and Etonett (Hong) prepared for their respective Ellerslie and Tauranga engagements with 1000m in 1:03.5 and 37.4.

Other gallops: 1200m plough: Daifuku (P Holmes) and Beauty Giant (Dowling) 1:23.2, 1:07.9, 40.2; Pentire Babe (Grylls) and Miz Oldfields Road (C Ormsby) 1:22, 1:05.5, 36.2; Super Thunder (A Wright) 1:22.9, 1:07.8, 40.3; Marcelle (Dowling) 1:28.4, 1:10.9, 38.8; Kinda Leica (H McQuade) 1:24.2, 1:08.9, 40.5; Storm Bro (Grylls) and Ellis Web Ellis (Sapsworth) 1:16.7, 1:01.5.

1000m plough: Giardini (Amit) 1:04.2, 37.8; Jimmy Hoffa (P McKay) and Oblivion (J McKay) 1:02.7, 36.2; Massofdash (J Collett) 1:05.6, 37; Sororia (Johnson) and Lorde Royals (C Ormsby) 1:09.8, 38.5; Purcentage (Sapsworth) 1:08.3, 39.4; Dream Run (P Holmes) 1:06, 37.1; Tiara (Hercock) 1:12.6, 43.1; Green Easy (Sapsworth) 1:04.8, 36.8; Hayley Ann (A Jones) 1:05.8.

Waikato Times Gold Cup candidates Deliciano, Surpass and The Fire Inside headlined a busy training session at Matamata as a large number of candidates for a big weekend of racing got through their work.

On a good plough Deliciano was ridden by her co-trainer Stephen Ramsay in a solid hitout over ground, timed to run her last 1200m in a slick 1:13.7, 1000m in 1:00.3 and the final 600m in 36.8. It was very good work by the Darci Brahma mare, who has bounced through her New Zealand Cup outing in good order.

Melbourne returnee Surpass (C Ormsby) was partnered by stablemate The Fire Inside (Johnson) over ground, gradually building momentum to cover the last 1200m in 1:19.5, 1000m in 1:03.5 and hitting the line well with a final section of 35.8. Surpass looks bright for Saturday’s Te Rapa feature, in which he will be ridden by Opie Bosson, while The Fire Inside has hit form at the right time.

Cal Isuzu Stakes winner Pussy O’Reilly (K Jones) worked boldly over 1200m in 1:16.4, 1000m in 1:01.8 and 600m in 35.3, while race rival Scintillula (Ramsay) cut out the same distance in 1:15.8, 1:00.2 and 35.2. The Galileo mare will be an interesting runner after her bold fresh-up fourth.

Te Rapa sprint rivals Queens Rose (Sapsworth) and Jubilate (Rhodes) got through their work in good style over 1200m in 1:16.9, 1:02.1 and 36.9. Race rivals Tomorrowland (Coleman) and Capone (N Waddell) cut out their last 1000m in a smart 1:02.4 and 35.1.

Attention Seeker (Olwagen), an entrant for the Eulogy Stakes at Awapuni on the weekend, was partnered by Tauranga Friday candidate Suffire (Coleman) through a tidy 1000m in 1:01 and 35.6. Stablemate Orange Peel (R Jones), also entered for the Eulogy Stakes, went with Justintime (Hong) over the same distance in 1:02.8 and 36.4. 

Bohemian Lily (Dowling), another for the Eulogy, and Realta (Grylls) covered 1200m in 1:17.8, 1:03.4 and 36.6, while Tauranga runners Jackpot (Ormsby) and Stella’s Honour (Johnson) stopped the clock after 1000m in a brilliant 1:00.3 and 34.8.

New Zealand 2000 Guineas runner-up Rockfast (Richards) worked with Imperium (Miller) over 1200m in 1:17.3, 1:03 and 36.1. Stablemate Darci’s Dream (Cameron), who was also freshened after her 1000 Guineas second, looked bright in her work over 1000m in 1:09.6 and 600m in 39.2. Both Bridgman-trained three-year-olds will trial before their Ellerslie carnival assignments.

Jimmy Hoffa (P McKay) and Valante (S McKay), entries for Te Rapa and Tauranga respectively, cut out a smart 1000m in 1:01.6 and 36, while Irish Moon (Coleman) and Muscat Hills (Grylls) got through the same work in 1:01.4 and 35.8.

Others to work well over 1000m included Puzzlente (K McQuade) and Brilliant Magic (M Gibbs) 1:00.7 and 35.9, Agent Ziva (A Jones) 1:04.3 and 36.6, Catarina (Gillies) 1:02.5 and 37, Tronic Rose (McRae) 1:02.6 and 36, Madam Jamai (Miller) 1:04.2 and 36.7, and Irish Encore (Grylls) and Fiftyshadesofgrey (Hutton) 1:04 and 37.5.

Opulent (Samuelsson) and Flirty Gertey (Hercock) did sound work over 1200m in 1:16.7, 1:01.6 and 35.6, while Bonnie Belle (Ormsby) returned 1:21.3, 1:04.7 and 35.8, Needlly (Leveque) and Elusive Unicorn (Dowling) 1:23.8, 1:08.4 and 39.6, Flavigny (Grylls) 1:21.8, 1:06 and 37, Super Thunder (Wright) 1:21.6, 1:05.8 and 38.8, Le Bon Fin (Goodwin) 1:21.4, 1:06.2 and 38, Arterial (M Brosnan) 1:18.2, 1:03.8 and 37.2, Maestro Tom (Coleman) and Harry Clarkin (A Jones) 1:15.6, 1:00.8 and 36.9, Android (Rhodes) and Full Monty (Sapsworth) 1:19.6, 1:04.3 and 37.2, Keep Rocking (Roff) 1:23.7, 1:08.7 and 39.6, and Quest (M Brosnan) and Chaos (Roff) 1:18.6, 1:03.2 and 37.2.

Silverdale (Autridge), freshened since his Coupland’s Mile placing, was timed from the 800m in 53.8 and 39.6. Alvesta (J McKay) and Culto La Vida (S McKay) had more pace on as they ran the same trip in 50.6 and 37.3, while Windborne (Samuelsson) took 55 and 40.1. 

In Style underlined her prospects for Saturday’s Concorde Handicap with a sparkling workout at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on a good plough with raceday rider Michelle Wenn in the saddle, In Style was partnered by Gaultier (Coleman) over 1000m in a brilliant 59.6 and 600m in 34.8.

It was excellent work by the Counties Bowl winner, who returns to her favourite track on the weekend. Gaultier, a three-year-old colt in the Danica Guy stable, did well to match strides with his talented stablemate and looks a ready winner off the back of his last start placing.

Puccini (P McKay) and Beckham (S McKay) looked bright and ready for their Trentham assignments as they strode over 1000m, picking up the tempo after a steady start to run the distance in 1:04.1 and quickening readily for a final 600m in 35.6. Puccini has gone on the right way since his Thompson Handicap win and will have Vinnie Colgan back on top in Saturday’s Captain Cook Stakes. Stablemate Beckham, who was narrowly beaten at Riccarton in his most recent start, had side-winkers fitted this morning and will also wear them on the weekend.

Pure Champion (Grylls) also looked the part for the Captain Cook Stakes as he got through smart work over 1200m in 1:16.4, with his last 1000m in 1:01.2 and 600m in 35.8. Pure Champion was allowed a freshen-up after the Hawke’s Bay carnival and has come to hand again pleasingly.

Fascination Street (O’Sullivan) and Persuasive (Hong) prepared for their respective Trentham and Ellerslie engagements with dashing work over 1000m in 1:00.4 and 600m in 35.7, while Smashing (Hercock) and Maestro (Cameron) also wasted no time over 1200m in 1:16, 1:01.2 and 35.8. Smashing will be entered for the Concorde Handicap, with the option of a lower grade assignment should she not make the field. 

Wisecrack (K Jones) was deceptive in his work over 1200m in 1:16.6, 1000m in 1:01.7 and 600m in 35.8. Queens Rose (Sapsworth) and Copacabana (Grylls) also caught the eye as they cut out 1000m in 1:03.8 and 600m in 36.2.

Concorde entrant Whosyourmaster wasn’t chasing time as co-trainer Lance O’Sullivan let him roll over 1000m in 1:03.3 and 600m in 37. Sound Proposition (Coleman) drew attention to his Ellerslie maiden prospects when he and Giardini (Hong) left 1000m behind in 1:00.6 and 600m in 35.2.

Nothing Trivial (R Jones) strode over the last 1200m of his work in 1:15.8, with 1000m in 1:02 and 600m in 36.8. The last-start Counties Cup runner-up drops to Rating 85 grade on Saturday. Letmeby (Grylls), who runs in the R85 3200 at Trentham, was paired with Android (Sapsworth) over 1200m in 1:17.3, 1:03.5 and 37.8.

Jackpot (Johnson) and That’s How We Roll (C Ormsby) did attractive work over 1000m in 1:02.8 and 35.7, while High Viz (A Jones, who runs at New Plymouth on Thursday, and Ellerslie candidate Sophisticate (Coleman) were timed form the 1000m in 1:00.2 and the 600m in 36.2. Payday (McNab) and No Deal (R Jones) were also in good form over 1000m in 1:00.1 and 36.2.

Wraithorth (Leveque) and Elusive Unicorn (Dowling) weren’t extended over 1000m in 1:06.7 and 38.8, No Tricks (Miller) and Seline (Sayed) took 1:08.4 and 38.5, Irish (M Brosnan) 1:04.6 and 38.2, Puzzlente (K McQuade) 1:04.8 and 39, and Sultry Assassin (Sapsworth) 1:05.2 and 38.8.

Show No Emotion (Hercock) was bright in her work over 1200m in 1:21.3, 1:05.9 and 37.2, while Chazelle (J Collett) also took the eye over the same ground in 1:17.2, 1:03 and 37.1. Others to work well over ground included Prince Bruno (R Jones) and Prize Lad (J Wong), who returned 1:18.9, 1:04.4 and 37.8 for their last 1200. Quintastics (Amit) also did well over 1200m in 1:17.6, 1:00.8 and 36.2.

Costa Viva (Cameron), who trials at Cambridge on Friday, was timed from the 800m in 52.2 and 38.7. Kinda Leica (H McQuade) and a Perfectly Ready gelding (Brown) ran the same distance in 51 and 37.3, while Unknown Pleasures (Johnson) and She’s Samashing (C Ormsby) covered 1000m in 1:07.4 and 37.

Rose Of Virginia (Leveque) and Beauty Giant (Dowling) strolled over 1200m in 1:26.1, 1:11 and 42.2, Revelator (Coleman) took 1:23.4, 1:08.6 and 40.6, while Sworntomylover (Tynan) covered 1000m in 1:10.9 and 42.1. 

On the all-weather track Thrill (K Jones) and Zadiffra (Luke) were paired over 1000m in 1:08.7 and 600m in 38.9.

Living The Dream worked like a next-up winner as she prepared for weekend racing at Matamata this morning.

Galloping on a good plough, Living The Dream (Sapsworth) had pace on from the start of her 1000m assignment, recording 1:00.7 for the full distance and finishing off with 600m in 35. The Graham Richardson-trained mare is in the right shape to go one better than her last-start second when she runs in the Rating 85 1100 at Ellerslie on Saturday.

Graphic (Grylls) looked on target for Saturday’s Eagle Technology Stakes when he and stablemate Margin Trader (C Ormsby) completed a strong 1200m in 1:18.8, 1000m in 1:03.9 and 600m in 35.2. Graphic has taken a lot of improvement from his first-up run, while Margin Trader, the winner of his only start from Ballymore’s Flemington stable, will be an interesting Ellerslie runner in either the Rating 65 1600 or the feature three-year-old 1500.

Promising stayer Chazelle (J Collett) looked ready for her Ellerslie engagement when striding through a smart 1200m in 1:15.2, 1:01.4 and 35.8. Capone (N Waddell) and Prize Lad (Grylls) prepared for Ellerslie with 1200m in 1:20.6, 1:04.2 and 36.5, while Longbeach (Lammas), who runs at Otaki on Friday, was never at top over the same ground in 1:23.2, 1:08.4 and 39.2.

Los Vargos (Rhodes) and Strong Bow (Sapsworth) did impressive work over 1200m in 1:15.2, 1:01 and 35.5. Ellerslie three-year-old candidates Divissima (C Ormsby) and Flavigny (T Johnson) cut out the last 1000m of their work in 1:03 and 35.9, while Giardini (Hong) and Tiger Moss (Grylls) also caught the eye over 1000m in 1:03.7 and 36.6.

Ellerslie entrant The Fire Inside (C Ormsby) did good stayer’s work, timed over her last 1200m in 1:19.3, 1:04.2 and 36.1. Liberty Heights (Leveque) and Always On My Mind (Dowling) were well held over the same ground in 1:24.4, 1:09.2 and 40.5, while Brampton Loco (Hong) was timed over 1000m in 1:04.8 and 39.2.

Temple Tiger (Grylls) and What We Do (S McKay) got through smart work over 1000m in 1:01.8 and 600m in 35.9. Over the same distance Tomorrowland (N Waddell) took 1:07.4 and 38.4, Culto La Vida (S McKay) 1:03.3 and 36.4, O’Reilly’s Gold (P Brosnan) 1:04.8 and 37, I’ll’ava’alf (A Jones) 1:03.9 and 37.1, and Alchemy’s Flight (Hercock) 1:06.2 and 37.4.

Le Bon Fin (Goodwin) strode through 1200m in 1:19.8, 1:04.6 and 36.8, Apache Fireworks (M Brosnan) and Keep Rocking (Roff) took 1:18.7, 1:03.6 and 37.2, Full Monty (Sapsworth) and Android (Rhodes) 1:20.8, 1:05.7 and 38.4, Sophisticate (A Jones) 1:21.3, 1:05.9 and 37.3, and Orange Peel ((Olwagen) and Attention Seeker (Coleman) 1:21.2, 1:04.4 and 36.4.

On the all-weather track Onlyarose (A Jones) was in good form ahead of her Ellerslie engagement when cutting out 1000m in 1:03 and 35.1. Perfect Star (Hillis) and Le’Vantos (Hunt) were timed over their last 1000m in 1:03.9 and 37.5.

Other gallops: 1200m plough: Little Miss Waitoki (Dowling) 1:27.6, 38.5; Victory Shall Be Mine (Grylls) 1:29, 43.3; Seline (Cameron) 1:31.8, 44.5.

1000m plough: Light Source (Hercock) 1:14.6, 42.8; Sonsy (Cameron) 1:10.9, 38.7; Unknown Pleasure (Coleman) 1:13.4, 41.6; Davy Crockett (Hercock) 1:13.5, 43.6; Smashing (Cameron) 1:14.7, 44.5; Wraithorth (Leveque) and an Align gelding (Dowling) 1:08.3, 41; Sharp Shooter (A Jones) 1:07.8, 39.8.