Kenny Rae and Krystal Williams are preparing to unleash a promising group of young horses at Riccarton this Saturday. The father and daughter training duo will have a significant presence at the upcoming meeting, with eight horses set to compete, seven of which are either two or three-year-olds.
“We have a heap of good young stock at the moment,” said Williams, expressing their excitement about showcasing their budding talents.
In the Rangiora New World Guineas Trial (1400m), Rae and Williams have Bezique and Illicit Dreams as contenders.
However, Illicit Dreams' participation depends on the condition of the track, particularly if it remains heavy due to recent rain.
Ace High gelding Bezique, a recent winner of two consecutive races at Ruakaka, is confirmed to run. Williams is optimistic about his chances despite the change in racing direction.
“He arrived down here three weeks ago now. He's pretty hard just going about his work. He's really bright and he'll be a good chance,” Williams said.
Illicit Dreams has been showing promise as a three-year-old, with close finishes in her recent starts.
The stable has been addressing her oral issues, and Williams explained, “She's had a few problems with her teeth and we've taken care to get on top of that. Since we've been on top of that, her form has really improved.”
Whether or not Illicit Dreams races this weekend, her lead-up to the Group 1 NZ 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton on November 18 will include the Group 3 Barneswood Farm Stakes (1400m) at Ashburton on October 14.
The spring assignments for Bezique and Contributer filly Dancing Dream, who is dropping back to maiden company on Saturday, will be determined by their performances this weekend.
Dancing Dream, a consistent performer with several placings, will aim for a confidence-boosting win in the maiden race. Williams described her as “not very big but tough.”
In the Nobby Bussell Memorial (800m), the stable will introduce four promising two-year-olds: Redemption, Collective Hearts, Super Rosa, and Porthouse Lady. Collective Hearts and Super Rosa have particularly impressed in trials, with Collective Hearts winning both 600m heats.
“They are four really nice two-year-olds,” Williams commented.
“Super Rosa and Collective Hearts look the best of the four. They are two really mature fillies.”
Another runner from the Rae and Williams stable is the seven-year-old Reliable Man gelding, The Buffer. He will compete in the Coupland's Bakeries Mile Trial (1400m) with stable apprentice Danika Wilson aboard, benefiting from a 4kg allowance.
Williams expressed hope for a better performance, stating, “He's been running well but the races just haven't suited him. Danika is starting to pick up a few more rides now and she's getting stronger. Hopefully she can pick up a win soon.”