Lightly raced four-year-old Francesca provided trainer Andrew Forsman with a day he will long remember when she took out the Gr.3 Rydges Rotorua Stakes (1400m) on Saturday.

This time two weeks ago Matamata trainer Andrew Scott was in Brisbane when he received the tragic news of the death in a traffic accident of his father, popular Horowhenua horseman Jack Scott.

The decision by Racing Queensland to transfer Saturday’s Doomben 10,000 meeting to Eagle Farm is viewed as a positive by Matamata trainer Mark Walker who will saddle leading contender Entriviere in the weight-for-age 1200m feature.

Well-performed relatives Sinarahma and Our Hail Mary have been fine servants of Allan Sharrock’s operation and will chase further staying honours at both North Island venues on Saturday.

Sakewin continues winning run; Big Mike gearing up for Cup tilt

Evergreen galloper Big Mike will commence what will likely be his last preparation when he lines-up in the Floyd & Toy Real Estate Property Brokers Open 2060.

Despite feeling completely drained of energy after his day at the races at Pukekohe on Saturday, Nick Bishara had a broad smile on his face as he reclined on his couch at home that evening.

Quality three-year-old colt Sword Of State pleased connections when winning an 1100m trial at Matamata on Wednesday and will now take his place amongst Te Akau Racing’s travelling contingent to Queensland.

Hastings trainer Patrick Campbell has unfinished business with Saturday's Listed Power Farming Hawke's Bay Cup (2200m) on his home track.