Lofty targets for Duchess Kate

8 October 2015

Trainers Stephen Autridge and Jamie Richards look to have another promising filly on their hands with Wednesday’s Taupo winner Duchess Kate putting her hand up for a tilt at the Gr.1 NZB 1000 Guineas.

Despite her royal name, Duchess Kate has been somewhat lacking in manners, over-racing early under Cameron Lammas before producing a powerful finish to down Thornhill.

“We’ve always liked her,” Stephen Autridge said. “Her attitude along the way hasn’t helped her but she’s getting there.

“We’ve got big plans for her and whether we’ve got the time to do it this time in, who knows, but we’re full steam ahead.”

Autridge indicated the Max Whitby-owned three-year-old would have one more start before a decision is made whether to target the Guineas.

Ocean Park’s With Grace seals NZ Cup berth

South Auckland mare With Grace secured her berth in next month’s Gr.3 Martin Collins New Zealand Cup (3200m) at Riccarton when extending her winning sequence to four with victory in the Baker Tilly Staples Rodway 2100 at Te Rapa on Labour Day Monday.

27 October 2026

Bonecrusher Stakes next for Justin Case

Trainer Kris Shailer has confirmed that his exciting three-year-old Justin Case will bypass next month’s Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton in favour of stakes targets closer to home.