Ruakaka hosts an eight-race program this Saturday. With fine weather in the lead-up, the surface should provide fair racing, suiting runners with a preference for better footing.
Track: Soft5
Rail: True
Selections for the eight races below:
Distintiva (#13) wasn’t disgraced here last start in a race where few made ground from the back. She should be fitter third-up, and the blinkers going on could sharpen her up. Warren Kennedy taking the ride is a plus, and an improved showing at odds would not surprise.
Zenzero Girl (#8) was simply a good thing beaten here last start when shut out at the 100m mark. She maps to get back in a genuinely run race and will require some luck from the draw, but at the price she appeals as a solid each way chance.
Strongly spruiked as an 3yo, Age Of Discovery (#4) makes his return from a long lay-off off the back of two sharp trial wins. He maps for a soft run just off the speed under Opie Bosson and looks well placed to resume on a winning note.
Tuxedo (#6) resumes since his NZ Derby run in March, where he finished seventh. He’s trialled nicely in preparation for this. Expecting he will get back before working through his gears late under Michael McNab. Expecting a bold return.
Berenhard (#3) was brave first-up here when left parked on a genuine tempo, fighting on doggedly for 2nd. Despite the wide gate, he has the tactical speed to push forward and race on speed. With natural improvement, he’ll run another good race.
Geneva (#1) was an impressive debut winner as a 2yo back in May and has trialled strongly twice since. From the handy draw, he maps to get a perfect run behind the speed and looks as though he’ll get every chance to continue his winning form.
Texas (#6) has been finding the line without threatening in recent runs. Back on a better surface from the inside draw, he maps to get a soft run and should be hitting the line strongly. Each way claims at the price.
Phantom Dragon (#5) has been inconsistent since returning from Australia and is winless since January 2023. However, he’s better suited on firmer footing, and with Sam Collett staying on from a middle draw, he’s capable of running an improved race in an open contest.