Rugged front-runner Saint Emilion once again showed his penchant for the Ellerslie track when he led all the way to win the Gr.3 OMF Stakes (2000m) on Tuesday.

Group One winner Saint Emilion and stablemate Highlad took positive steps toward a possible return to racing at Te Rapa on Saturday week when trialling well at Avondale on Tuesday.

A filly who cost only $600 as a weanling has been crowned New Zealand Bloodstock’s Southern Filly of the Year.

Lisa Allpress was both surprised and full of praise for Saint Emilion after the Cambridge warhorse fought back to score in a thrilling finish to the Gr.3 Coca-Cola Canterbury Gold Cup (2000m) at Riccarton on Saturday.

Leading trainers Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman have switched their attention from the riches of Sydney racing to chasing five New Zealand features this weekend.