Australian Autumn Carnival races on Carnival’s hit list
It’s show time again on Boxing Day for the Group 1 b
The lightly-tried speedster will return after a brief break to contest the Listed Allied Security Hazlett Stakes Open (1200m) at Wingatui.
Carnival has won four of her eight starts for Riccarton trainers Kevin and Pam Hughes, including the Group 3 Stewards’ Stakes (1200m) on her home track at her last appearance in November.
“She had a fortnight off after that and she’s come back looking good,” Kevin Hughes said. “I’m very pleased with her.
“She had her main gallop on Tuesday morning and it was very, very good. She had a little bit of a blow afterwards and the trip down to Wingatui will tighten her up a bit more.
“It’s been a good season so far and I’ve always liked the mare. She doesn’t go on wet tracks and they tripped her up a couple of times when she ran second this preparation.
“She’s got plenty of speed and with her action she can ping off the good tracks.”
The Group 1 JR & N Berkett Telegraph (1200m) at Trentham in January is on Carnival’s programme and there are also tentative plans for the daughter of Showcasing to travel further afield.
“Her first mission was the Stewards and her main one now is the Telegraph,” Hughes said. “There could also be a trip to Sydney in the autumn, we’re keeping all our options open at this stage.”
Carnival will be ridden for the first time on Tuesday by the experienced Riccarton jockey Kylie Williams.