Curraghmore graduates delivered several good performances over the weekend collecting Group placings on both sides of the Tasman.
Gr.1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) runner-up In A Twinkling (Fastnet Rock) is likely to head to the Queensland Winter Carnival off the back of a very brave run to finish not far off winner Crown Prosecutor in the blue riband event.
“He went a super race and probably just needed a little more cover during the run,” trainer Jamie Richards said.
“He’s very tough and kept up a good gallop in the run home. I thought he was going to get him (Crown Prosecutor) all the way down the straight but he was just a little too tough for us on the day.
“We’re going to see how he comes through the next couple of days, but if he pulls up well then I definitely think Brisbane is the best option for him.
“He seemed well enough overnight so once he’s had a couple of easy days in the paddock, we can then decide on a path for him then.
“I think what he did show is that he is a genuine stayer who could be a real Cups contender next season.”
In Sydney Unforgotten (Fastnet Rock) collected another Group One placing when third behind the now world recorder holder Winx in the Gr.1 Chipping Norton Stakes (1600m).
This was her second run this preparation and she looks to be tracking nicely onto some big targets this campaign.
In Melbourne Age of Chivalry (He's Remarkable) continued his good form this preparation finishing second in the Super Vobis 3YO Handicap (1400m).
Despite running a touch green when asked to let down he was very brave in the finish and was so close to getting another win to his credit. He appears to be still learning his craft and should only improve with further racing.
Mighty Boss (Not A Single Doubt) lined up in the Gr.2 Blamey Stakes (1600m) second up. He put in a nice performance and to finish sixth and was only 3.2L off the winner. He should only improve from there.
Theanswermyfriend (High Chaparral) put in an uncharacteristically disappointing run, he may have been feeling the track.
Karaka Million 3YO Classic winner Long Leaf (Fastnet Rock) was another that looked like he may have felt the track was a bit hard.
Given a lovely ride by Jamie Kah, Long Leaf finished a credible sixth in the Gr.1 Australian Guineas (1600m) but pulled up quite quickly.
"He felt like the winner at the 400m but he felt like he pulled up a little bit short.," Kah said.
There were some really encouraging displays at the track and Curraghmore wish connections the best of luck as these horses progress on to their future targets this season.
RACE REPLAY: Gr.1 NZ Derby
