NZ Briefs for 10th February 2016

Mare a home track specialist; Early Derby favourite out of contention; Southern stayer close to resuming

Mare a home track specialist

Progressive four-year-old Mary Quant will be out to further her impressive record on her home track later this month.

The Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott-trained mare has two wins and a second from three starts at Matamata where she will make her next appearance on February 27.

“There’s a Rating 85 mile there for her on Breeders’ Stakes day,” Scott said.

Mary Quant has hit top gear this preparation with three wins and two minor placings from her five outings.

Early Derby favourite out of contention

Scrutinize’s campaign has been halted by trainers Stephen Autridge and Jamie Richards.

The Savabeel three-year-old was the early favourite for the Gr.1 BMW New Zealand Derby following an age group win at Awapuni in December, but he has subsequently turned in three below par performances.

The Gr.2 Hawke’s Bay Guineas runner-up will now be gelded and turned out for a spell.

Southern stayer close to resuming

Durable South Island galloper The Bishop is progressing well toward next month’s Wyndham Cup.

“He went out for three weeks after his last race, he was a bit jaded but he’s come back well and is ticking over nicely,” co-trainer Robert Dennis said.

The winner of the Listed Spring Classic at Riccarton during his last campaign, the nine-year-old is likely to resume in the open sprint at Winton on Sunday week.