The countdown to the inaugural $3.5 million NZB Kiwi (1500m) will move up a notch at Te Rapa on Saturday when Waikato Stud’s runner Sought After lines up in the Wentwood Grange 3YO (1200m).

The outstanding form of Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott’s three-year-olds continued at Ellerslie on Saturday with a one-two finish by Sethito and Prosegur in the Gr.3 Bonecrusher Stakes (1400m).

Impressive debutant Cheaha was the latest of Wexford Stables’ three-year-olds to step into the winner’s circle, and on Saturday at Ellerslie, five of his stablemates will take their place in the Gr.3 Bonecrusher Stakes (1400m).

The race now known as the Listed Armacup 3YO Stakes (1500m) is becoming a reliable springboard to bigger and better things for Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott, and that trend looks likely to continue after a smart win by Checkmate at Ellerslie on Saturday.

Explosive filly Hankee Alpha made a big statement at Te Aroha on Wednesday, with a phenomenal performance putting her firmly in the conversation for the major three-year-old races this season.

Wexford Stables co-trainer Andrew Scott had an eventful start to the Taupo trial meeting and one he was happy to quickly move on from.

The team return with two selections for Wednesday’s action – an exciting hurdling debutant from Ffos Las, and a big-price handicap prospect from Kempton’s all-weather card.

Wexford Stables have unveiled a number of promising three-year-olds over the past fortnight, and the latest to shed her maiden status was Smart Love, who won the Fresh Choice Leamington 3YO (1600m) at Te Rapa on Saturday.