A Cambridge galloper preparing for a Group One goal will step out in Australia on Saturday.
In Adelaide Belle du Nord will tackle the Gr.3 Schweppervesence (Auraria) Stakes (1800m) at Morphettville.
Belle du Nord left New Zealand after running seventh to Savvy Coup in the Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand Oaks (2400m) at Trentham and made her Australian debut in the Listed Lealia Stakes (1600m) at Morphettville a fortnight ago when running on for fifth behind Blue Morpho.
“I was expecting a run similar to that,” said Belle du Nord’s co-trainer Emma-Lee Browne. “She had so much travelling and was dropping back from the 2400 metres of the Oaks. I was very happy with that run.
“She has improved and she needed to because this is tougher again this weekend.”
Belle du Nord and stablemate Monarch Chimes have been stabled with former Kiwi trainers Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young at Cranbourne and Browne said both have thrived.
“She is so settled here and her work has been super. I’m very happy with her.”
Zac Spain was aboard Belle du Nord in the Laelia Stakes and will again take the mount this weekend as the Reliable Man filly attempts to secure a start in the Gr.1 Schweppes Australasian Oaks (2000m) at Morphettville on May 5.
“She’s got a tricky gate (11) on Saturday and it’s a good field. She’ll have to run well to be a chance in the Oaks,” Browne said. “The Oaks is the main aim and she’ll head home after that.” -NZ Racing Desk
