Tavis Court scores at Hawera

The Anna Clement-trained Tavis Court kept his impressive form line intact on Thursday when winning the Sandford Brothers 1400 at Hawera.

The son of Tavistock extended his record to two wins and three runner-up performances from five starts, but had to work hard to secure his second victory on the Heavy11 track.

Jockey Lisa Allpress elected to press forward for the lead from their wide barrier (13) and the pair were able to take control of the race, going clear of their rivals at the turn of the straight.

However, Tavis Court began to tire in the concluding stages of the race, but managed to hang on for a 1-1/2 length victory over Beckidboo, with Manolo a further 1-1/4 lengths back in third.

Allpress was pleased with the win, but believes the gelding is suited to better tracks.

“He didn’t jump away and travel as well as what I thought he would,” she said. 

“Once we were halfway down the back, I was always going to be wide, I just let him roll along a bit more and then he crossed them really easily.

“It was a good result in the end because he did work hard, but he really did tie up that last bit. I don’t think he is a genuine heavy tracker. 

“His maiden win was on a slow track at Waverley. I think on a better track he will be a nice horse.”

Racing Safety Development Fund open for applications

Minister for Racing Winston Peters has announced that 2019/20 applications for funding to improve racecourse safety are now open.

The Racing Safety Development Fund has two funding rounds per year. The first funding round of 2019/20 is open for applications as of 31 July 2019. 

“While the Government is in the process of implementing reforms to revitalise the racing industry, health and safety will always be of the upmost importance” Peters said. 

All racing clubs and racing code bodies should consider the condition and standard of their facilities and equipment, and assess whether they are safe for animals, staff and customers.

“The Fund not only benefits clubs and racing bodies across the country, but helps to address the health and safety of the racing animals, riders, spectators, officials, and others involved in racing.” Peters said.

The Racing Safety Development Fund covers up to half the costs of a project with between $7,500 – $50,000 funding being available for each project. 

Past projects have included improvements for safety running rails, irrigation and drainage, lighting upgrades and grandstand repair.

Applications must be submitted by 25 September 2019.

Further information is available from: www.communitymatters.govt.nz

Rich Hill Stud stallion parade

New Zealand breeders will get their first opportunity to inspect Rich Hill Stud’s new season stallion Ace High for the first time at their Walton property (570 Landsdowne Road) on Sunday at 1pm.

The dual Group One-winning son of High Chaparral will be one of four stallions on show.

Rich Hill will also showcase Group One winner Vadamos, Group One performer Proisir, and Melbourne Cup hero Shocking. 

Rich Hill’s shuttle stallion Satono Aladdin is currently in quarantine.