THIS WEEK’S BLACKBOOKERS

Aricina Race 9 Hastings 3 July

Found the line late from tricky position back on the fence. Quality mare with plenty to offer in the weeks ahead.

Rapid Recall Race 2 Ruakaka 3 July

After settling well four back on the inner, she was caught in a pocket after turning in. Once balanced up and in the clear, she found the line strongly for second, running the third fastest last 200m all day in 11.34 which suggests 1400m next-up will be ideal. She won at Te Rapa last year so maybe back there on 24 July over 1400m could be the target.

Sacred Command Race 2 Ruakaka 3 July

He didn't show a lot of early speed and got back on the inner, but once he was able to get clear inside the last 150 metres, he found the line hard, running the second fastest last 200 metres of the race. Best suited over more ground so watch out for this nicely bred gelding to win in his next couple of starts.

Laurant Race 6 Ruakaka 3 July

Big effort for third after getting well out of her ground and having to make her run wide. She will get her reward, so stick with her.

The Dom Race 7 Ruakaka 3 July

From a wide draw, he was caught wide on a strong tempo and naturally tired to seventh. The bonus is he drops back to a rating of 65, so watch out for him from a better draw back in class at his next couple of starts.

Hugh Glass Race 8 Ruakaka 3 July

From a wide draw, he had to work early to get one off, then before the turn, lost ground but came back strongly for fifth in the best last 200m of the race in 11.74, which in the context of the day was very good. Maybe blinkers could suit better along with a decent draw!