A third start in the North Island has been confirmed for What Choux Want.
The Riccarton filly finished an unlucky third in her Ellerslie debut last month before she produced a solid run for fifth, after a tardy beginning, in the Listed Karaka Million.
Trainer Andrew Carston has now set his sights on Saturday week’s Gr. 2 J Swap Contractors Matamata Breeders’ Stakes.
“It’s all go,” he said. “She had a week off after the Karaka Million, then a week on the water walker and she’s worked well since. I’m pretty happy with her.
“She’s showing no signs that she’s had enough. We’ll see what happens and there are still two Group Ones to come, but at this stage I am leaning toward putting her out after Matamata.”
Carston also has a big team engaged at his home meeting at Riccarton tomorrow, and he is expecting a bold showing from She’s Graceful in the NZB Insurance Pearl Series Race.
The daughter of Per Incanto finished fifth behind What Choux Want in her first appearance and then got home strongly for third last time out.
“She ran very well at Motukarara and I would have preferred the race to be 1000 metres again, rather than 900, but it is what it is and I’m sure she will still be very competitive.”
Like What Choux Want, She’s Graceful holds a nomination for the Gr. 1 Courtesy Ford Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes at Awapuni on April 2.
“That’s a long way off yet, but if you’re not in you can’t win,” Carston said.