3 minute read

Black-type targets next for Red Chois; Counties Carnival gets underway

Black-type targets next for Red Chois

The Stephen Autridge-trained Red Chois will now be set black-type assignments after her victory in the Avon City Ford Premier (1200m) at Riccarton on Saturday.

The European import recorded her fifth win from just five starts in New Zealand and Autridge believes she will be competitive at black-type level.

"I was a bit concerned it (ground) was possibly too good for us, but she loved it, and went the race of her life," he said.

"Since I have had her she is just a magnificent mare to do anything with, but she is so precocious at this stage I doubt whether I can get her to go past 1200m."

The daughter of Choisir will now head for a quick break before returning to work next month.

"She will be home tomorrow (Tuesday) and in the paddock," Autridge said. "This is her first prep in New Zealand and they don't tend to handle too much in their first prep.

"She will be out for a fortnight. If we are happy and she is going well I think we would look at races like the Concord (Gr.3, 1200m). The Railway (Gr.1, 1200m) will come around too quick."

Counties Carnival gets underway

This week the Auckland branch of the New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders' Association, in collaboration with the Counties Racing Club, will host several events celebrating the Counties Carnival.

Proceedings get underway on Tuesday with an open evening at Haunui Farm where those in attendance can view the stallions, a selection of yearlings and enjoy light refreshments.

Inspections have already commenced for the 2020 edition of New Zealand Bloodstock's Ready to Run Sale of two-year-old's at their Karaka sales complex where a catalogue of 414 horses will go under the hammer on Wednesday and Thursday.

On Friday the Clarks Beach Golf Club will host a competition raising money for the Make A Wish Foundation. Entry includes a starter pack, lunch, afternoon tea, drink vouchers and general admission to Saturday's race meeting.

The carnival concludes with the SsangYong Counties Cup Day at Pukekohe Park on Saturday featuring the Gr.2 Dunstan Feeds Auckland Thoroughbred Breeders' Stakes (1400m).

For enquires about any of these events please contact Shannon Taylor shannont@haunuifarm.co.nz or Paxton Conder paxton@pukekohepark.co.nz