NZ - Te Rapa - Race 7

BHARNSTORM (5) steadily improved through his initial prep in the spring, ending on a high with a big win at Matamata over 1 ¼m in December. He has had a trial to bring his fitness levels up, and despite 6 ½f being short of his best, he can still be very competitive fresh, especially on a wet track. THUMBELINA (12) overcame a wide gate to score very impressively at Pukekohe a month ago. She has plenty more to offer this year, and even from another wide draw, she will go close to repeating the dose. ESTERNAY (8) needed her first run in NZ after relocating from Australia when failing to find any form there in the spring. She slides down in class, and from a superior gate, she can be a quick improver. TRACK TESTER (3) found the company a touch easier when finishing second by a nose at this level at Matamata 3 weeks ago. He is still improving, and another honest effort is expected. ASHOKA (16) peaked on his run late when resuming from a spell, and he is worth including in all combos.