Te Akau Racing's Gingernuts (NZ) (Iffraaj {GB}), who nabbed the 2017 G1 New Zealand Derby and the G1 Rosehill Guineas across the Tasman, will make his first start in the G1 Tarzino Trophy S. at Hawke's Bay on Sept. 2, Racenet.com.au reported Wednesday. Last seen running fifth in the 2400-metre G1 Australian Derby to end his year, the strapping chestnut ran seventh in a 1000-metre trail at Te Teko Tuesday.
“He had a nice day out and he's a lot bigger this time,” co-trainer Jamie Richards, who trains with Stephen Autridge, told the New Zealand Racing Desk. “He'll probably trial again and kick off in the Tarzino Trophy at Hawke's Bay.”
Long-term goals for the popular galloper include the 2400m G1 Caulfield Cup on Oct. 21 and the Nov. 7 A$6-million 3200m G1 Melbourne Cup at Flemington.
“He'll be entered for the Caulfield and Melbourne Cups, and whether he runs on the last two days at Hawke's Bay before he goes, we're not sure yet,” Richards said.
Te Akau's full-brother to their Derby hero, Griffin (NZ), a freshly minted 3-year-old gelding who has won his lone start to date, a 1200m maiden at Matamata May 3, also pleased his connections when seventh in a 1000-metre trial at Te Teko.
“He just ran home under his own steam and we're happy with him,” Richards added.
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