Calypso to Rule?

Barrier one looks a good gate for up-and-coming filly Calypso (pictured) who takes her place in one of Saturday's feature events, the Group 3 Mr Tiz Trophy over 1200m at Ellerslie.

A game winner after doing a bit of early work at Te Rapa last start (drawn out that time), Calypso has won two of only five starts.

Unplaced just the once (with genuine excuses), Calypso should be well rated by Michael Coleman who rides the daughter of Pentire for the first time.

"She's a fast filly who can lead or sit close to the lead and she is a tough one to get past," said Chad Ormsby who is confident of a bold showing.

"Her work this week has been enormous - the best she has ever worked leading into a race."

Later in the day The Lions Rule - scratched for a tough black type assignment during the week - can also prove competitive.

"She didn't draw too well in that race," Ormsby explained, "and there didn't look to be enough pace in the race for her so we decided it would be better to let her go through the grades."

And so The Lions Rule looks nicely placed in the 1600m contest - nicely drawn in barrier two with Michael Walker to ride.

An unlucky fourth at over 1400m at Ellerslie first up - held up at a vital stage - The Lions Rule has progressed well since.

"In this grade she should prove hard to beat," Ormsby said.