Trainers want decent draw for $1m Ellerslie feature
Andrew Scott and Lance O’Sullivan have all but done their job with Nirvana In Fire and now they’re praying for a bit of outside help for the Karaka Million.
The Matamata trainers are thrilled with the colt ahead of the sternest test of his fledgling career in Saturday’s 1200m feature at Ellerslie.
“He’s made really good progress and we couldn’t be happier with him,” said Scott, who also shares in the ownership of the son of Showcasing.
“Sam Collett has been booked to ride him, but it will come down to a good draw and good luck — hopefully that’s us.”
Nirvana In Fire was a trial winner before he was successful on debut at Pukekohe Park and he then confirmed his Karaka Million berth with a runner-up finish at Ellerslie on Boxing Day.
“He’s got the form and he’s earned the money to get in so he’s a legitimate chance,” Scott said.
Meanwhile, stablemate Spring Heat enjoyed a week in the paddock following her brave effort in the Gr.1 Levin Classic (1600m) at Trentham.
The daughter of More Than Ready got back in the field from an outside gate and finished well for fifth behind Age Of Fire.
“She ran the second quickest last 600m of the race so we were well pleased with her performance,” Scott said.
“We walked away without any black type, but we certainly weren’t disappointed in her. We’re not sure just yet whether she wants to run a mile or if she’s more effective over 1400m.”
Scott said Spring Heat, whose two wins include the Gr.3 Bonecrusher Stakes (1400m), will make her return in the Listed Mufhasa Stakes (1300m) at Ellerslie on March 3.