Group racing at Trentham

There is plenty of high quality racing in New Zealand this weekend and Ballymore has representatives in three of the Group races at Trentham on Saturday.

We have our fingers crossed for a scratching in the feature event - the $250,000 Group One Telegraph Handicap in which Kaptain Kirkup is first emergency.

"He was an unlucky runner in the same race last year," Chad Ormsby recalled.

"We just hope he gains a run as we think he can run a good race," he said of the talented five times winning son of Captain Rio who strips fitter for his two runs back from a spell.

The Group 2 Challenge Stakes is another nice race on the Trentham programme and Bonappetit is looking to improve on his most recent start - last in the Group 3 Eclipse Stakes at Ellerslie on New Year's Day.

"He was disappointing that day," Ormsby conceded, "but Jason Waddell rides him this time - he knows the horse and he suits him."

Bonappetit ran an encouraging race when runner-up at his Ellerslie debut in mid-December and he has drawn nicely in barrier two on Saturday.

We also saddle up a runner in the Group 3 Trentham Stakes - Savvy Dancer who has not been far away at recent outings.

"Jason Waddell riding should assist him and he was unlucky last start," said Ormsby.

"A good barrier draw and a little bit of rain about should help him also."

Earlier in the day we will be cheering on Mrs Neat in the 2100m event and she too has drawn nicely - barrier five - for Jason Waddell.

"She was a good second last start and she has been racing her way into better fitness - she looks a decent chance of going one better this time."

Runners at Gore and Pukekohe Park will make Saturday a very busy day for us - our first at the former meeting being Valencia's Image who lines up in the 1200m event.

The daughter of Pentire has run nicely into placings at her last couple of outings and has pleased us with her progress since.

"It looks a suitable race for her and she can go right on with her good recent form."

Last start Listed winner Mae Jinx (pictured) also heads to Gore where she again looks well paced - "it is a similar field to last time and she has worked very well leading into this."

Revelator is our sole runner at Pukekohe Park and, being a son of Zabeel, he will appreciate a step up to the mile after a strong 1400m victory at Matamata last month.

"He looks a really good chance up in distance," Ormsby said.