Bill Thurlow couldn't have asked for a better week at the Recent Zealand Cup carnival and is confident a more experienced member of the team can add a Nordic contribution to the stable's tally this Saturday.
The Waverley trainer took two wins, a second place and a coveted Group 1 spot at Riccarton and is now turning his attention to No Compromise in the Gr.3 TAB Counties Cup (2100m).
The eight-year-old son of Pins enjoyed success in the Gr.1 The Metropolitan (2400m) with Chris Waller during his tenure and has not won since returning home, but has shown excellent performances up to the highest level.
He came second in the Gr.1 Zabeel Classic (2050m), third in the Gr.1 Livamol Classic (2040m) and most recently third in the Gr.3 Balmerino Stakes (2000m) in Ellerslie.
“Hopefully there’s some moisture around, he needs to dig into the ground a bit,” Thurlow said.
Waverley coach Bill Thurlow. Photo: Race Images Palmerston North
“He had a lithe trial at Foxton on Tuesday, we gave him a nice hit on a track that was giving way.
“We were delighted with him, he went around the bridle and did what was asked of him, so he'll come north in really good condition and we're looking forward to it. “I'm sure he'll have a good race becomes.”
Ryan Elliot was on board last time out and will once again partner No Compromise, whose longer-term target is likely to be the Gr.1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m).
Thurlow was delighted with his Riccarton results: The Entertainer won on the first and final days, Crunchie Boy was second and Movin Out took a brave third place in the Gr.1 Recent Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m).
“It was great, the horses were doing really well and it's always nice when you travel so they can show off their performance. We thought we had taken the right horses and it all worked out,” he said.
“They have all traveled back well and are in the paddock and we will plan what to do with them.
“The two older horses are getting through well and the younger filly might need a little longer, it’s a massive outing for the first time.”
Movin Out had great chances in just her third career start, taking her first win at Otaki, but there was confidence in her Classic prospects.
“It was a huge step up and we were underdogs, but we wouldn't have taken her there if we didn't think she was up to it,” Thurlow said.
“We knew she was good, she had a lot of talent and she just lacked a little bit of ring skills.
“She never got up early enough in the spring to do another race or two. It wasn’t because of her fitness, it was just because she lacked some experience.”
Thurlow is confident Staphanos' daughter can make further progress when she returns next year.
“She's done at least 2000m, she's just so relaxed with a nice walk and getting into a good rhythm and is probably a real Oaks filly,” he said.
