Lilikoi targets classics
Matamata visitor Lilikoi showed she was on track for further agegroup riches this summer with a comprehensive victory in the $70,000 Eulogy Stakes (1600m) at Awapuni.
The Sir Peter Vela-bred and raced Charm Spirit filly thrived on the step up to 1600m as she dashed away from her three-yearold rivals yesterday over the concluding stages, to register a two-length victory.
Settled in a perfect trailing position by rider Rosie Myers, the Jamie Richards-trained runner bounded to the front at the top of the Awapuni straight and never looked like being headed as she downed Manchu, Showbeel and race favourite Aalaalune to register her second career success.
Richards, who was at Te Rapa, was thrilled to see the filly win in such dominant fashion after planning a raid on the event with Vela’s racing manager Gary Cossey.
‘‘That was fantastic to see her win like that for Sir Peter and the result of a plan we put together after she had won her maiden race at Taupo back in September,’’ Richards said.
‘‘When she won that day, Gary and I had a good chat and he was keen to set her for the race today.
‘‘This one is a leg of the New Zealand Bloodstock filly-of-theyear series, which is an ideal series to target as it lets the fillies compete against their own sex in some very nice races.
‘‘It’s good to see a plan come together as she is a filly with a lovely turn of foot, who looks like she will be suited as she gets up over a trip.’’
‘‘ . . . she does hold a nomination for the New Zealand Oaks (2400m).’’