Master trainer Gary Hall snr has an enviable record of producing pacers first-up in excellent condition, and he will be hoping for a powerful performance from Raklou in the $23,000 7Mate Pace over 2130m at Gloucester Park on Friday night.

Bruce Tapper may have been a late starter to the training ranks, but he hasn’t let that slow him down, with the Timaru horseman bringing up his 100th win at his home track on Wednesday.

Saturday’s two $50,000 open handicaps at Riccarton were won by a pair of former Matamata horses who seem to be loving their new lives in the South Island.

Timaru trainer Stephanie Faulkner admitted to doubting Richard Stomper’s prospects before and during the LOVERACING.NZ Remembering Grey Way (1600m) on Sunday, but the talented six-year-old kicked off his new campaign with a tenacious front-running victory on his home track.

Andrew Carston is excited about the prospects of his Riccarton barn this spring, and he will kick-off the preparation of one his leading chances this weekend.

Canterbury gelding Matscot is once again set to fly the southern flag in the North Island next month when he crosses the Cook Strait to contest the Gr.1 Howden Insurance Mile (1600m) at Te Rapa.

Timaru trainer Stephanie Faulkner looks to have her hands on another exciting ex-Hong Kong galloper, with stakes winner Leedox set to make his New Zealand return.