The rescheduled Group 3 Sweynesse Stakes (1200m) at Te Rapa on Saturday plays to the advantage of Johny Johny, trained by Tim and Margaret Carter, who welcomes the extra week.
Originally slated for Rotorua, the race was moved due to track safety concerns, benefiting the proven sprinter.
Margaret Carter expressed satisfaction, stating, “We've got no complaints at all… he's freshened up a lot after missing the original race.” Johny Johny, a son of Charm Spirit, showcased his prowess last month at Te Rapa over the same course and distance, defeating subsequent winner Sacred Satono and Group winner Bonny Lass.
The gelding's rider, Jim Chung, retains the mount, and although unable to utilize his 3kg claim, he has partnered Johny Johny to his last two victories.
The Carters are optimistic about his performance, with Margaret Carter noting, “Touch wood, he's never let us down, and we're sure he'll race honestly again.”
Looking ahead, the Group 1 Railway Stakes (1200m) is on the radar, but plans depend on Johny Johny's performance.
Carter mentioned, “We'll get this race done and then look and see what's ahead… we'll get this one out of the way first and see how he is.”
Johny Johny's versatility on different track conditions adds to his appeal.
Carter highlighted, “He's quite versatile and showed us he can run on most tracks… he's won at Ellerslie on a Good 3 before.”
With the stable in good form, buoyed by Elton Rocks' maiden success at Tauranga, the Carters are optimistic about Johny Johny's prospects.
Margaret Carter expressed pride in Elton Rocks, stating, “He deserved that the little chap, we were very proud of him.”