Ringo makes solid progress

Ringo’s connections were satisfied with his first-up run and further improvement is expected from the stakes winner and Group One performer.

The Awapuni galloper overcame a tardy start from a wide gate at Hastings to finish seventh in the Listed New Zealand Bloodstock Sprint (1200m) and the Fastnet Rock gelding has since trained on well. Ringo will further his preparation on his home track on Wednesday in the Listed Manawatu ITM Anzac 1550m, in which he will be ridden by Jonathan Riddell. ‘‘I’d probably prefer it to be 1400m rather than 1550m, but I’m really happy with him,’’ Breslin said.

‘‘He’s an older horse now so he’s taking a bit longer to come up and he has to give weight to a lot of horses in a handicap.’’

Ringo has been a trusty servant of the stable with eight wins, including success in the Gr.3 Red Badge Spring Sprint (1400m), and a third placing in the Gr.1 Captain Cook Stakes (1600m).

He has also twice finished runner-up in the Gr.2 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m).

‘‘He’s an eight-year-old now and it’s a matter of trying to place him right to give him his best chance,’’ Breslin said. He will also be represented on Wednesday by King Cougar in the Carpet King Handicap (1200m), Wafer runs in the Power Farming Handicap (2100m) and Ravenhill contests the Yealands Family Wines Maiden (2100m).

‘‘King Cougar is resuming and he’s pretty forward while Wafer has been off the winning scene for a while, but she has been unlucky a few times.’’