BLACKBOOKERS

Wanganui Friday June 23

CONWAY O’CEIRIN

Shouldn’t be a maiden for much longer after an impressive third on debut. Covered ground midfield and forced to go wider when improving, but still found the line strongly, going down by only a half-neck and head.

Cambridge Saturday June 24

VANTAANA

Raced greenly early and ended up a clear last. Gathered momentum before the turn and finished on well to cross the line less than a length from second.

Riccarton Saturday June 24

EMPRESS SUIKO

On debut without a lead-up trial, did very well to finish third. Took time to get into a rhythm and ended up last on the turn before finishing well down the extreme outside. Bound to have learnt from the experience.

Woodville Sunday June 25

COUNTRY BUMPKIN

Picked up a bonus flat win to go with two steeplechase successes from earlier in his career. Obviously in good order ahead of return to jumping ranks.