Surf’s up for Bullrush while Pukekohe looks promising

A change of environment is having the desired effect on the well-related Bullrush.

The Waikato Stud-bred and raced half-brother by O’Reilly to the Gr.2 Cal Isuzu Stakes winner Sports Illustrated has returned home from Sydney to continue his career with Moira and Kieran Murdoch.

Bullrush was unbeaten in his first five starts from the Rosehill stable of John, Michael and Wayne Hawkes. The six-year-old placed once in five subsequent outings and hasn’t raced since he finished fifth in the Listed Abell Stakes at Moonee Valley.

“He’s been here since May and we’re very pleased with him, he’s a magnificent-looking horse,” Moira Murdoch said. “It’s something differ- ent for him here at the beach, it’s helping his mental attitude.

The stable is also keen on the prospects at Pukekohe today of Air Centre in the NRM 1200. The fouryear-old hasn’t raced since her smart debut victory at Avondale in July.

“That wasn’t a surprise, she’s a very speedy horse,” Murdoch said.

Meanwhile, highly-regarded trial winner Vin De Dance will debut in the Ssanyong 1200.

“He’s a big-striding horse who needs a decent track, but we need to kick him off,” said Andrew Forsman, who trains the son of Roc de Cambes with Murray Baker.

Nominated for the Gr.1 Caulfield Guineas, Vin De Dance will be ridden by Matt Cameron.