Group One performer Hi Yo Sass Bomb showcased that she’s on target for an exciting spring campaign when winning her 1000m heat at the Foxton trials on Tuesday.

The polytrack surface brings out the best in enigmatic mare Mars and her connections are hoping that trend continues on Wednesday.

Group One performer Meritable quenched his thirst after a four year winning drought when victorious in the VS Equine Dannevirke (1200m) at Woodville on Sunday.

War Decree’s daughter Val Di Zoldo will be given opportunities this preparation to lock in the only missing credit on her CV.

War Decree’s daughter Val Di Zoldo will be given opportunities this preparation to lock in the only missing credit on her CV.

The Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) has often been the one that got away for Shaune Ritchie, but Tajana’s superb first-up performance at Ruakaka on Saturday has the Cambridge trainer dreaming of a breakthrough in the Riccarton classic.

Tuxedo held his own against the best of his generation as a three-year-old last season, and a spectacular first-up performance at Ruakaka on Saturday suggested that he might be about to make the next step at four.

Reigning premiership winners Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson will watch Ruakaka closely on Saturday despite sending only one runner to the Northland course.

Highly regarded colt Geneva has passed every test with flying colours and is in the right order to continue that trend at Ruakaka.

Byerley Park trainers Grant Cooksley and Bruce Wallace had a strong representation in Saturday’s star-studded 1000m trial at Te Rapa, and they are hoping a big spring is instore for their quartet of triallers.

Trainer Ken Kelso was wearing a wide smile as he left Te Rapa racecourse on Saturday afternoon after witnessing his two stable stars provide him with suitable evidence they are both on target to kick off their Spring campaigns in fine fashion.

Savabeel gelding Force Of Nature has been in a purple patch of form of late, and weight-for-age assignments could be in the offing for the five-year-old if he continues his impressive form line on Saturday.

Like many trainers, Raymond Connors has always dreamed of contesting the Gr.1 Melbourne Cup (3200m), and reality is now starting to hit home as he prepares Trav towards to coveted race in November.

Doctor Askar has had a near perfect record this year and he will be seeking to continue his golden run this spring, with several Group Ones in the crosshairs.