Thursday NZ racing briefs – Te Aroha next for Hanger
Capable three-year-old Hanger will make his next appearance at Te Aroha later this month.
The son of O’Reilly, who ran third on debut last season in the Listed Reid & Harrison Slipper (1200m), was a runaway maiden winner at his last start at Matamata to end a frustrating run for trainer Roger James.
“He hasn’t had a lot of manners,” he said.
“He’s been a panicky little fellow, but he’s become a lot more tractable now.”
Trainers top 2YO run continues
Stephen Autridge and Jamie Richards’ golden season with their two-year-olds continued at New Plymouth on Thursday.
The Matamata trainers produced Ristretto, who was unbeaten in two trials ahead of her debut, to win the Comcat Maiden (1200m) in the hands of Shafiq Rusof.
The Makfi filly was quickly into stride to lead and she kicked gamely in the straight to hold the challenge of Ole Ole at bay.
No set plan yet to Rising Shot
Stakes performer Rising Shot is ticking over at Te Rapa while connections decide their next move.
A multiple winner and placed in the Group 2 Cal Isuzu Stakes (1600m), the Red Giant mare failed to recapture her best form through last spring and summer.
“She’s just had a few niggling issues that we’re working through,” trainer David Greene said.
“She’s a black type mare and she’s out of a wonderful mare.”
Rising Shot’s dam is Danehill’s daughter Derrydame, who has also left two other stakes performers, including the Group 3 winner Passing Shot.