Winter Cup possible target for Spencer

[Wandering Eyes]

A trip south to contest the Gr.3 Winter Cup (1600m) at Riccarton in August could potentially be on the cards for Spencer (NZ) (Derryn) after he scored in the The Tele Otaki Handicap (1200m) on Saturday.

It was the second consecutive win for the Waverley gelding after taking out the $50,000 Autumn Sprint Final (1200m) at Trentham last month.

He jumped away well from the ace barrier on Saturday before jockey Lisa Allpress settled him two back on the rail. She guided him into the clear at the top of the straight and he was able to reel in leader Amend, but he shied just before the post nearly dislodging Allpress, however, she was able to stay on her charge and score a one length victory.

Trainer Erin Hocquard was pleased with the win, but said she was more concerned for Allpress’ welfare following the late race incident.

“I thought she was getting too far back but he is so tough, he just keeps giving,” she said.

“I think she lost her iron. I was more worried about her than happy that he won.

“He has been super. He is just full of himself, and he is such a tough little horse.

“We will just see afterwards (race) and figure out where to go (next).”

While aware of his quirky nature, Allpress said she was taken by surprise with the late-race incident, but was rapt with the win nonetheless.

“He is a quirky fella and he can shy. I wasn’t expecting that at the winning post,” she said. “He is doing it so easy, I think he just lost concentration.

“I was really happy with him (in the running). He was cruising nicely, and I came out and chased that horse (Amend), so I was really happy with that.”

Allpress has a high opinion of Spencer and believes he is capable of tackling a late winter stakes target.

“I think a race like the Winter Cup (would suit him),” she said. “He needs to step up a bit more, but he has won over the mile before, so maybe he can get there.”

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