Exciting Times Ahead for Aspen

Purchased by Te Akau principal David Ellis at the Karaka Premier Sale and Group One placed in the Levin Classic (1600m), Aspen (3 c Alamosa - Kirin Belle, by McGinty) departs on April 13 to Te Akau's Singapore stable where he will be trained by five time New Zealand Champion trainer Mark Walker at Kranji racecourse.

An impressive winner last September on debut over 1400 metres at Ruakaka, Te Akau New Zealand trainer Jason Bridgman then put Aspen aside to focus on a Derby campaign.

Following a second up fourth to eventual NZ Derby (Gr. 1, 2400m) winner Puccini (Encosta De Lago) in the Great Northern Guineas (Gr. 2, 1600m), he gained his Group One placing at Trentham but indicated he needed a break after his performance in the weight-for-age Herbie Dkye Stakes (Gr. 1, 2000m) at Te Rapa.

Te Akau New Zealand assistant trainer Pam Gerard said: “He's a lovely colt with striking looks. He's laidback around the stables and is a gentleman of a horse to do anything with. He has just needed time and as he showed in his races he will continue to improve.”

Mark Walker is looking forward to the arrival of Aspen and has some lofty plans for him.

“He will kick off in a Novice race for one win horses worth $75,000 and then just work through the grades,” said Walker.

“All going well, we will try and qualify him for the Gold Cup in mid November, a handicap race over 2200 metres with a minimum weight of 50kgs and worth $1.35 million. As a four-year-old, he will be aimed at the Singapore Derby (Gr. 1, 2000m) next July."