Cup beckons He’s Cavalier
Ruakaka Cup (2200m) winner He’s Cavalier is in fine form of late and he could add another Cup to his tally at Waipa on Wednesday when he lines-up in the Cal Isuzu Te Awamutu Cup (2000m).
Since his victory in the Ruakaka Cup last month, He’s Cavalier ran third in the Listed Haunui Farm Karaka Classic (1600m) before running fifth in the Listed Jakkalberry Classic (1950m) earlier this month.
The James Hatton-bred, owned and trained runner has been active since March and his trainer believes he is in career best form heading into the 2000m event.
“In his last start there had been a month or so between races and he’d been a bit flat, he got a bit of a virus so he missed some work, so I was pretty happy with the run,” Hatton said.
“He’s a pretty seasoned horse, he’s been up since March and he’s now in the best form of his life.”
Apprentice jockey Rebecca Scott will retain the ride after her pleasing last-start effort and Hatton said her four kilogram claim will come in handy on Wednesday.
“She rode him brilliantly last-start,” he said. “I was really happy with the ride and I get to claim off 58kg with the benefit of bringing him back to the rest of the field.”
Hatton has few concerns heading into the race and believes the versatile seven-year-old may be able to take benefit from the racing styles of his competitors.
“I would have been happier if it hadn’t rained because I think he would have just run them off their feet,” he said. “In saying that, he does handle every single track condition there is.
“I’m not worried about the barrier at all (10), they start right down the chute at Waipa, so he’s got 500m to get into position. He should be able to go forward and sit in behind.
“I’d say Admiral and Waipipi Lad will cut each other’s throats and I’ll be able to take the benefit of it.”
Hatton said he will likely press on with He’s Cavalier this spring with an eye towards the Group 3 Counties Cup (2100m) next month.