Kelly Coe could be set for another crack at elite-level if she performs well in the Listed Clubs NZ @ The Races Wairarapa Thoroughbred Breeders’ Stakes (1600m) at Tauherenikau on Tuesday.
The six-year-old mare has been freshened since her sixth placed run in the Gr.1 Zabeel Classic (2050m) at Pukekohe on Boxing Day and trainer Ashley Meadows expects to see an improved result from his mare at the Waitangi Day meeting.
“We freshened her up a bit after she went up north because the trip and the race did take a bit out of her,” Meadows said.
“I thought it was a good effort in the Zabeel. It wasn’t ideal having to lead against that class of horse, but I don’t think she disgraced herself.
“She has recovered well now, and while I am not expecting her to win, I am expecting her to run a good race.”
If the daughter of Proisir performs up to expectations this week, a return north could be on the cards, with Meadows eyeing the Gr.1 Bonecrusher New Zealand Stakes (2000m) at Ellerslie next month.
“2000m is probably her pet distance now. We might head north again and have a go at the Bonecrusher,” he said.
Meadows will also head to Tauherenikau with McKhan, who will contest the TAB Bonus Back Wairarapa Cup (2050m).
“He is a nice horse but he doesn’t help himself. He does a bit wrong and he goes a bit hard,” Meadows said.
“I am putting earmuffs on him tomorrow to bring him down a peg or two, and if he settles, he will run out a strong 2000m.”
Meanwhile, Meadows will head to Wanganui on Friday with Inmyshadow, with the Group Three performer set to enjoy a drop back in class.
“He will go to Wanganui on Friday and then he will probably head to Otaki after that and then we will look at the St Leger (Listed, 2600m).”
