NZ Racing Desk
Trainer Jamie Richards is hoping for some rain ahead of Saturday for Gr.2 Norwood Family Wellington Guineas (1400m) contender Weaponry.
The three-year-old gelding, who was purchased by David Ellis out of Curraghmore's 2017 New Zealand Bloodstock draft, is fresh off a southern campaign, which included a last start victory in the Listed Southland Guineas (1600m) at Ascot Park last month.
“I thought it (southern campaign) was really good,” Richards said. “He’s a little bit stiff probably not to win a couple of those races. He’s freshened up nicely down in the South Island and appears to be in good order.
“A bit like the Lightning, it is a really strong race and he would need some rain to be competitive, but if they do get a bit of rain he could be.
“He is certainly a very happy and bright horse at the moment. Everything has gone to plan since he ran at Invercargill.”
Win, lose or draw, Weaponry will head to the spelling paddock after Saturday with an eye towards some middle-distance targets in the new season.
“He spells after Saturday,” Richards said. “He’s earnt a rest and we think he can develop into a nice middle-distance horse for next year.” – NZ Racing Desk
