News

This week’s six to watch includes a mix of trial winners, unlucky runners, and well-bred types stepping out at Auckland, Cambridge, and Addington. Keep an eye on American Falcon, Lexicon, and Mystic Magic.

The new Southern Surge series kicks off next month, with trainers across Southland and Otago gearing up to target the winter-spring campaign with quality pacing and trotting teams.

Last year’s New Zealand Cup winner Swayzee is back in work, with trainer Jason Grimson confirming plans to return to Addington in November to defend his title.

Last week the HRNZ Board approved an amendment into the recently introduced rating framework giving a one-point rating penalty reduction to horses placed 5th in non-Group and Listed races.

Racing fans are in for something truly special this November, as Kaikoura hosts two milestone events across a two-day harness racing showcase

Tayla Duley recorded her first win in the sulky at Addington on Sunday, guiding Denver to a dominant mobile trot victory, a milestone made sweeter as her first win as an owner as well.

Leap To Fame and Arcee Phoenix claimed Grand Final victories at Albion Park, as Kiwi runners featured prominently across a Group 1-filled Inter Dominion programme.

Russley trainer Laura McKay is hopeful Birdy can deliver a maiden win at Addington today, provided the trotter brings her manners after a mistake last start.

By Michael Guerin

Dylan Ferguson admits Crackerjack is going to need to improve to warrant racing our best three-year-old trotters again this season. The good thing is Ferguson thinks that improvement is almost certain.