Moeraki makes pleasing homeland return

[Wandering Eyes]

Trainer Danica Guy (left) was pleased with Moeraki’s trial at Matamata on Tuesday. Photo: Peter Rubery (Race Images Palmerston North)

Moeraki, a Group Three performer, marked a promising return to his homeland by winning his 800m trial at Matamata on Tuesday.

Originally trained in New Zealand by Danica Guy, Moeraki showed early potential as a juvenile, including placing in the Group 3 Waikato Stud Slipper (1200m).

After a stint in Hong Kong, where he won two races, Moeraki has returned to Guy’s care.

“I was very happy with his trial today,” said Guy.

“We got him back from Hong Kong, and he has been a bit of a work in progress, but he seems to be really good.”

The seven-year-old son of El Roca, known for his natural ability as a two-year-old, has worked out his quirks and is back with his original trainer.

With a patient approach this preparation, Guy plans to take one race at a time.

Moeraki may kick off his campaign with a rating 65 race at Te Rapa next week, according to Guy.

“We will just assess him after each run and hopefully he will go back through the grades a little bit here, and we will see how far we can go.”

Looking ahead to Taupo on Wednesday, Guy has entered two runners, but there’s uncertainty about Sazuka’s participation due to concerns about the track’s firmness.

Reflecting on her past experience, Guy mentioned, “I took the same horse there last year, and he jarred up badly and needed three months in the paddock, so I am not sure he will be taking his place tomorrow.”

Discussing another runner, Guy expressed optimism about Sazuka’s potential maiden victory, saying, “If he puts in a similar performance, he will definitely be right in it.”

She also shared plans for stablemate Ghazzah, noting, “This will probably be his last run this campaign, and then he will go for a spell. He would want to improve a little bit to warrant me getting excited about wanting to bring him back.”

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