Ruakākā Race 1
7 Yokozuna
Yokozuna (#7) makes his debut for the Donna Logan stable and has shown ability at the trials. The low draw and Vinnie Colgan aboard are both big positives, especially with the rail out. Looks ready to run a bold race first-up.
Ruakākā Race 2
5 Undisputed
Undisputed (#5) debuts for the James/Wellwood team off a slick trial win at Ellerslie. He draws softly and gets Michael McNab aboard, which ticks two key boxes for his first raceday appearance. Can make his debut a winning one.
Ruakākā Race 3
8 Ascension
Ascension (#8) was just fair at Te Rapa last start but didn't seem comfortable on the testing Heavy10. She gets a 4kg claim from Sam McNab and the step to the mile suits. Finds a winnable maiden here if she brings her best.
Ruakākā Race 4
2 Judicial
Tip of The Day
Judicial (#2) went too slow in front on NZ debut and raced keenly as a result. He carried very strong market support that day, suggesting we shouldn't drop him just yet. He's since trialled superbly. If the surface is still in reasonable shape come this point or the day, he looks very hard to beat.
Ruakākā Race 5
3 Bosch
Bosch (#3) chased strongly into second here last start behind Pacifico. He maps to control the race from the front and will take plenty of running down if left alone. Looks to get his chance to go one better this time.
Ruakākā Race 6
2 Saint Bathans
Saint Bathans (#2) never really got a fair crack at them last start after being badly checked at the 200m. He maps to get back again but looks suited by an above average early tempo and likely deteriorating track. With even luck, he should be in the mix.
Ruakākā Race 7
6 Tide And Time
Tide And Time (#6) was enormous here last start when caught wide and still fighting on well in stronger company. Third-up, up in trip, and drawn to do no work this time, he appeals as a nice each way prospect.
Ruakākā Race 8
7 Vesphire
Vesphire (#7) closed off hard last start after sustaining a long, wide run over this same course and distance. She'll be getting back again but looks suited by a strong tempo. Expect her to be launching late again, a great 1×3 play to close the day.
