Rotorua Double - Classico Shows Class

Coping with heavy footing, Classico (4 m Pierro - Onetangi, by Exceed and Excel) recorded a fresh-up victory in the $15,000 Van Dyks's Maiden 1215 metres on Saturday at Rotorua.

A stylish trial winner in November 2021 at Matamata, and sixth on debut over 1200 metres in the same month at Tauranga, Classico spent time on the sidelines before running home under her own steam for third in a trial on 24 April at Waipa, and appeared likely to be ridden patiently and look to get home. 

“She had a few knee problems and the owners have been patient while we got her back to racing trim, and probably in at the right time of year,” said trainer Mark Walker.

Settling second last on a competitive pace, standing the leader eight lengths at the 600m, Classico set off on a wide run before descending on the leaders mid-straight and had sufficient momentum up to score.

“She came to the end it in the heavy with all that ground to make up, but did everything right and quickened really nicely,” said jockey Warren Kennedy.

“She'll win another one on that performance and prefer a little more ground, as well.”

On genuine Heavy10 footing, Classico ran 1215 metres in 1:18.5, last 600m in 39, and drifted in betting to pay $6.80 & $1.90 on the NZ TAB tote. 

By Pierro (Lonhro), the quintessential racehorse that only ever ran in stakes races and won 11 of his 14 starts, Classico is a half-sister to three time winner Oneroa (Shooting to Win) who also appreciates yielding ground. 

Her third dam, Kate's Myth (Kaoru Star), was 1988-89 Champion 3YO Filly and Joint Wrightson Filly of the Year. 

Bred by John Carter, Classico is owned by Alfred Bloodstock, M N, N & P Apatu, Jomara Bloodstock, A J Reynolds, and J Wyborn.

Classico was strapped by Loka Manu.

Photo credit - www.raceimages.co.nz