New Plymouth Friday Oct 28

CONTEMPLATION: Did well to finish third after a taxing run that saw him hit the front well before the home turn and left him vulnerable. Deserves another chance.

Matamata Saturday Oct 29

DUSTY ROAD: Big effort first time of asking to finish a half-length third. Got back in the early rush then wound into his work to hit the line hard. Up to 1200m will be hard to hold out next time.

Awapuni Saturday Oct 29

ROCKET SCIENCE: Had a rocky run early but rallied to get himself into a challenging positon, only to spoil his chances lugging in. Big improver.

Ashburton Sunday Oct 30

BETTY SPAGHETTI: Huge effort after getting into trouble in the early running and again when trying to make a move on the turn. Rushed home once in the clear and a certainty beaten.