Leading trainer Jamie Richards has been the dominant force with his juveniles this season and has another pair of smart youngsters stepping out in the Stable Books 1100 at Matamata on Wednesday.
Snitzel colt Sword Of State resumes after finishing third to stablemate Imperatriz (I Am Invincible) in the Gr.2 Eclipse Stakes (1200m) on New Year’s Day with Opie Bosson to ride, while Danielle Johnson will partner Craving (NZ) (Tivaci), who finished fourth on debut at New Plymouth in late December.
“Sword Of State came through the Eclipse Stakes in good shape. We gave him a freshen-up and he’s had an exhibition gallop since. He’s done some nice work and goes into the race in good shape,” Richards said.
“Craving has gone the right way after her fourth on debut at New Plymouth, and we’ve given her a bit of time since to continue strengthening.”
Both Sword Of State and Craving are on trial for assignments at Matamata in a few weeks, with the former to target the Gr.3 Waikato Stud Slipper (1200m) on February 27 and the latter being aimed at the Gr.2 J Swap Contractors Ltd Matamata Breeders’ Stakes (1200m) on the same day.
Meanwhile, Karaka Million 2YO (1200m) winner On The Bubbles (Brazen Beau) will have an exhibition gallop at Te Aroha next week before a tilt at the Waikato Stud Slipper and Gr.1 Sistema Stakes (1200m).
“On the Bubbles had a week in the paddock after winning the Karaka Million and returned to the stables in good shape,” Richards said.
