Sororia to Put Hand Up as Serious Winter Contender

To be ridden by leading jockey Danielle Johnson, having enjoyed success in the saddle in two of her three victories, Sororia looks well placed to further her credentials which could see her tackle black-type events later in the campaign.

“You couldn’t fault her work or her work ethic since returning to the stable, and she has just continued to improve the further into this preparation she travels – she could be an exciting Cups prospect,” co-trainer Pam Gerard said.

“One of our concerns for tomorrow’s race was the track, but with the continuing improvement, it should be holding in good stead by the time she goes around.”

A win tomorrow may put her in contention for a trip down south where several black-type options look suitable at this stage.

The second of our two pronged attack at Ellerslie will be the lightly tried Alakazam who will be hoping to turn her form around, after not being able to go a yard in the puggy Rotorua going, but has all the credentials to suggest she can be competitive in tomorrow’s Rating 65 event over 1200m.

“She’s a very tidy little worker and she just needs conditions to suit and she will be competitive,” said Gerard.

“The wide barrier draw hasn’t deterred us as it will probably be the place everyone wants to be. The 3kg weight relief Ryan Elliott gives us is also a great advantage.”

Apprentice to Graeme Rogerson, Ryan Elliott has shown some very encouraging signs as one of the country’s leading apprentices and looks a serious talent in the making.