Stayer remains on target for Group One feature

Willie Cazals’ early New Zealand showings have kept him on course for a return to Group One racing.

Trainers Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott have seen enough in the lightly-raced grey’s two appearances to continue on a path toward the Livamol Classic at Hastings on October 1.

Willie Cazals resumed off an 18-month break in the Gr.2 Foxbridge Plate and his chances weren’t helped when he missed the jump and raced keenly.

He finished ninth and was one spot better when he tackled an open mile at Hawke’s Bay, his chances not helped after being blocked for room in the straight

“His run at Te Rapa was solid enough and we were very pleased with his effort at Hastings,” said Andrew Scott, who trains the Irish-bred with Lance O’Sullivan.

“He showed us a glimpse the other day that he’s nearing form and we hope he continues on an upward spiral.”

A stakes winner in Italy and runner-up in the Gr.2 Italian Derby, Willie Cazals subsequently joined Tony Cruz’s stable in Hong Kong.

He didn’t win there, but he did finish runner-up in the Gr.1 Hong Kong Vase in a field that included international Group winners Dominant, Curren Mirotic, Empoli, Red Cadeaux, Snow Sky and Parish Hall.

“He’ll have his next run in the open mile at Pukekohe on Sunday,” Scott said, referring to the Listed Karaka Classic.

Meanwhile, stablemate Gentil Tonton will head south to Hastings for this Saturday’s open 2000 metre handicap at Hastings.

“The long-term plan with him is the New Zealand Cup,” Scott said. “He’s coming along well and the two miles won’t be a problem.”

Gentil Tonton has won up to 2400 metres and he was also Group Three-placed in last season’s Rotorua Cup.