O’Reilly mare claims Pukekohe feature

24 November 2013

O’Reilly mare Annie Higgins look set to bring further stakes honours to her champion sire in the coming months. The Lance Noble-trained six-year-old came with a powerful late burst to win today’s Gr.3 Counties Cup with the promise of more to come.

Annie Higgins was making the third start of her current campaign and off the back of her narrow victory at Pukekohe she will next defend her Gr.3 Waikato Gold Cup title. ““She needed every bit of the 2100 metres today so it’s onwards and upwards now to the 2400 metres of the Waikato Cup.”

Ridden by regular partner Leith Innes, Annie Higgins took time to wind up in the straight and arrived late to snatch a narrow victory. “That was heart in the mouth stuff, but Leith (Innes) timed it to perfection,” Noble said. “She’s a really tough and honest mare and gives 100 per cent every time.”

The Corner with Garry Chittick

Mary and I had a great weekend. As usual, Taupo Race Club put on a couple of days that encourage you to go to the races. The lead-in to the day was an hour or so at the iconic Yacht Club Bar – an easy place to be, perched above the lake: wine, beer and pizzas provided. A chance to meet and greet, bearing in mind the visitors that make the effort to attend.

19 August 2026

Noverre’s son Spill It sold to Chris Waller

Christchurch trainer Anna Furlong will be keeping a keen eye on the progress of promising three-year-old Spill It after the talented youngster was sold to Australia following his impressive Riccarton victory earlier this month.