Dunn pushing on with star

‘‘I really wanted to get him down in to the beach training routine.’’ Robert Dunn on Alta Maestro

Robert Dunn has sent star threeyear-old Alta Maestro to the southern arm of his stable as he pushes on with the horse’s Sires Stakes Series campaign.

He was an expensive failure for punters in the first northern heat, at Cambridge last Thursday night, ultimately running last in the six-horse field when a hot favourite. Subsequent blood tests explained the run and Dunn has had little cause for concern since.

‘‘It was either the end or beginning of a minor virus but we treated him and he appears to be getting over it. His blood work is improving and we will check in again early next week.’’

Pukekohe-based Dunn had always planned to head south to Woodend Beach with the son of Art Major. ‘‘That was the plan; I really wanted to get him down in to the beach training routine. He’s had a couple of tie-up issues in the past and we wanted to get him settled as soon as possible before the final.’’

Alta Maestro is not yet qualified for the $170,000 final on November 14, but Dunn will likely give him two more opportunities to do so.

‘‘The next heat is on the 20th and he should be right for that. Then there’s another one a fortnight after that, too.’’

Alta Maestro was joined by trotting mare Yagunnakissmeornot, who lined up at Addington last night.

‘‘She’s nominated for the Dominion Handicap and if she’s going to get a start, we have to try and get her up the pecking order a bit.’’

She’s won an impressive 16 races, but they have all been at Alexandra Park.

‘‘Surprisingly, she’s never won left-handed. he seems to be trotting well that way at Pukekohe back home and I guess we will find out whether she’s as good on race night.’’