Last-start Group 1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m) victor, Skew Wiff, has wrapped up her New Zealand racing stint and is set to relocate to Te Akau's Cranbourne base in early October, as confirmed by co-trainer Mark Walker.
Skew Wiff secured her first Group One crown at Hastings on September 9, triumphing over a star-studded field that featured notable contenders like Sharp ‘N' Smart and Legarto.
As a part of her preparations, she took part in a quiet exhibition gallop at Matamata on Wednesday, guided by her regular rider Opie Bosson.
During the gallop, Skew Wiff maintained a steady pace over 1000m, recording a time of 1.08, with the last 600m covered in 40.8 seconds.
“She was nice and relaxed for her and feels good,” said Bosson.
Looking ahead, Walker, who is in partnership with Sam Bergerson, mentioned that Skew Wiff might have another exhibition gallop at Te Rapa next Friday to keep her engaged mentally before her scheduled departure for Australia the following Tuesday.
Skew Wiff, owned by Waikato Stud and sired by their Champion stallion Savabeel, will now shift her focus to Australian racing events during the Melbourne and Sydney spring carnivals. Her campaign will commence with the AUD$300,000 Group 2 Rose of Kingston Stakes (1400m) at Flemington on October 7.
Walker emphasized the potential value Skew Wiff holds.
“She's valuable already, but if she gets black type there (Australia) and potentially a Group race win, then she's worth a lot of money to Waikato Stud.”
“If she runs up to scratch at Flemington, then she'll go up to Sydney for the Golden Eagle, that's the plan.”
Waikato Stud experienced success in the $10 million Golden Eagle (1500m) last year with former Te Akau runner I Wish I Win.
The 2023 edition of this prestigious four-year-old event is scheduled for November 4 at Rosehill. Walker expressed satisfaction with the facilities at Cranbourne, highlighting their ability to facilitate these racing opportunities and options for Skew Wiff.