Te Akau Friday Update

David writes:

It has probably been one of the busiest weeks ever here at Te Akau Stud, as this afternoon, Karyn and I are hosting a wedding in our front paddock. This isn't just any wedding - our youngest daughter, Julia-Rose Ellis, is marrying her fiancé, Hamish Hayes.

They will be joined by 160 family and friends under a magnificent white marquee, so you can just imagine what a massive exercise this has been to ensure their special day will run smoothly and without a hitch.

Best of luck to Julia-Rose Ellis and Hamish Hayes - we hope it is the best day of your lives!

The farm continues to hum with activity, as we are right in the middle of breaking in 20 yearlings from the sales. I am now really confident we have bought a vintage lot of yearlings.

One colt that the team absolutely loves is the Lot 355 - an Iffraaj colt out of Rosetti Bay. I think this colt looks a bit special, and yet there hasn't been much interest in him.

In my catalogue, I had noted to spend $300,000 on him, yet I purchased him for only $165,000 - this is extremely good value. I am more than happy to race a good share of this top colt with Karyn. If you would like to be a part of the team, I would suggest contacting me sooner rather than later, as we will be registering him at the end of next week and any shares that aren't sold will be owned by Karyn and myself. Call me now so you don't miss out - 021 925 151

Thankfully we have such a beautiful day here at the farm for the wedding, but after today, I know we are all hoping for some rain!

Speaking of the farm, three spellers that are enjoying life in the paddock out here right now are Sword of Osman, Te Akau Shark and Melody Belle. Three legends in their own right who were all purchased by me. They are certainly enjoying their downtime and just look a treat. Here they are pictured earlier this morning, having a great chat!

Our trainer, Jamie Richards is aiming for his 20^th Group One win tomorrow in the New Zealand Oaks in Trentham - now that is some achievement for any trainer!

Good luck to all our owners with runners this weekend, and a special mention to Brendan and Jo Lindsay who have Probabeel running in Sydney tomorrow - how exciting is that!?

Paul Richards, who is taking care of her while she is in Australia, reports she has settled in really well. Our stable jockey, Opie Bosson, is travelling over the ditch especially to ride Probabeel in her Australian debut.

Have a great weekend everyone - and go the Tangerine!!

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