Te Akau Exhibition Gallop

Stakes performed Te Akau racehorses Costa Viva (4 m Encosta De Lago - Vivacious Spirit - below) and Rockfast (3 c Fastnet Rock - Gypsy Princess - above) undertook an exhibition gallop during the meeting on Friday 27 March at Rotorua.

Costa Viva, a winner of the 1000 Guineas (Gr. 1, 1600m) and New Zealand Bloodstock Filly of the Year, and Rockfast, runner-up in the 2000 Guineas (Gr. 1, 1600m), took advantage of lovely Dead5 footing to have a hit out prior to their upcoming assignments at Easter.

Trainer Jason Bridgman reported that Costa Viva, ridden by Matt Cameron, and Rockfast, with Cameron Lammas aboard, worked together over 1000 metres in 1:00.6 and the final 600m in 34.4, with both horses working within themselves. Bridgman said: “Rockfast was a little more idle which is customary for him, while Costa Viva travelled on the bridle throughout and looked as though she was working up to her best”.

They each pleased their respective riders and had a good blow afterwards to suggest the outing was both timely and beneficial.

“Costa Viva is still quite pretty in appearance and will really benefit from it and Rockfast had a nice blow, with the pair each having a good recovery,” said Bridgman.

Costa Viva is scheduled to contest the Rating 85 1200 metres on Saturday April 4 at Te Aroha, and Rockfast the 3YO 1600 metres on Monday April 6 at Ellerslie.