The Purdon stable “initially disappointed” by Anything Goes in the Maurice Holmes Trophy, have reset that impression after evaluating his subsequent work and expect a bold effort this Friday in Avon City Ford New Brighton Cup, Mark says.
“Yes at first a little disappointed but when we reviewed it and take into account the work he has done since we feel better about it.It is still early days on where we expect him to go.His last 2 pieces of work have been right up to the mark and we feel he is on track”
The Holmes was run at a much sharper overall rate for the 2600,nearly four seconds faster than the National Handicap even though both 800 sectionals were similar at close to 55, the last 400 of the Holmes at 28.6 being a bit slower than the muddling tempo of the National. These are times well within the grasp of any Cup aspirant and Anything Goes can be expected to improve on them at short notice. He meets rivals of the BD Joe standard on free for all terms while conceding 27 rating points but his seasoning should stand to him.It will be an interesting test of Anything Goes NZ Cup aspirations, which,given the Holmes was a “ticket in” race are a priority if not an urgent one at this stage.
The return of Vessem who was nominated for the two year old event is awaited with interest but Mark feels first starter Treacherous Baby is one to keep an eye on in the same race.
The daughter of O Baby has looked promising in her leadups.
“She is set a task against the colts and geldings but she will hold her own and more so against the fillies” Mark said.
With Style and Carrero Rapido take a step up to 2600 and to R75 limit in their event. The trip should suit both and while Carrero Rapido only had to clock 2.27 for 1980 to clear maidens first up ,though he got home in 56.9 and he will thrive on racing.
In other stable news (see Australian Update) Oscar Bonavena (pictured) whose best will add a lot of interest to open class trots this spring will be at the trials next week and Cup standouts Self Assured and Akuta will be trialling in 2 weeks,all three doing well.
On the galloping front Mark plans to have his first triallist, Buster Shaw, on hand for Ashburton trials on September 19