Talented Duo Head to Te Rapa

Promising three-year-old filly Fortaleza and the highly progressive mare Keep On Coming (pictured) will be the only representatives for the NZ stable this weekend when they line up in their respective races at Te Rapa on Saturday.

To be ridden by Michael McNab, Fortaleza (Darci Brahma x Bunyah) has returned to the stable in good condition and has certainly enjoyed a lengthy spell having not been sighted since January earlier in the year. The striking daughter of Darci Brahma was super impressive at her first race day last preparation when running third in the Listed Wellesley Stakes over 1000m at Trentham.

“She’s still carrying condition and will likely need the run before we see the very best of her,” co-trainer Pam Gerard said.

“We were happy enough with her trial at Te Teko, having not been asked to do too much, and it was a nice hit out and she’s where we want her to be heading into Saturday.”

“There are a couple of really nice horses in the field, but we hope to see her competitive. Either way, she is going to take plenty of improvement for the outing.”

Fortaleza runs in the maiden 3YO event over 1200m – the first race on the nine card programme.

The second and final runner of the Ballymore team will be the ultra-consistent Keep On Coming who looks well placed to produce another quality performance, particularly with the services of apprentice rider Sam Weatherley who is enjoying a purple patch of form.

“She’s such a good doer, and it’s taken it’s taken us a while to get her fit, but she looks a very strong chance and Sam’s claim should play in her favour.”

“We were unlucky not to win last time we went to Te Rapa with her, so we’re hoping we can go one better!”