Top options for Merion

16 January 2015

Michael Moroney has a Group One decision to make with his New Zealand-bred three-year-old Merion.

The Flemington trainer has targeted the Gr.3 CS Hayes Stakes on February 21 for the O’Reilly gelding’s return as a pipe-opener to a sterner test.

Moroney has yet to decide whether Merion will run in the Australian Guineas at Flemington or in the Randwick Guineas. This year, both features will be run on March 7.

Wolfy reacts well to change

A tactical change by trainer Nicky Ryan saw Tivaci’s son, Wolfy, triumph at Flemington on Saturday. Dropping back to 1200 metres with blinkers applied, the Waikato Stud-bred four-year-old stormed to victory under Ethan Brown, showcasing a powerful finish to secure his third career win.

18 January 2025

Frustrating runs ends in style

Slipper Island returned to winning ways at Trentham with a powerful finish over 1200 metres, ending a 17-month drought despite consistent form with seven placings. Trainer Tony Pike praised the stable favourite, describing him as “frustrating but talented.” A son of No Nay Never, he was purchased for $180,000 at Karaka.