Orchestral seeking to plunder Hastings gold

Orchestral will contest the Gr.3 Gold Trail Stakes (1200m) at Hastings on Saturday. Photo: Race Images

By Paul Vitesse, LOVERACING.NZ News Desk

Orchestral holds an upcoming Group One nomination though connections are approaching the business end of the spring with flexibility.

The Roger James and Robert Wellwood-trained three-year-old will kick off her campaign on Saturday at Hastings in the Gr.3 HBPB Thoroughbred Breeders’ Gold Trail Stakes (1200m).

Orchestral is also currently the $6 favourite for the Gr.1 Barneswood Farm New Zealand 1000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton.

However, Wellwood did sound a note of caution regarding the daughter of Savabeel’s prospects of a successful resumption on Saturday.

“She’s certainly not an out and out 1200m horse and is one that we think will go 1400 and a mile and then more so in the autumn,” he said.

“She has showed that she’s got a lot of ability, but is up against some sharper fillies that can jump and put themselves on speed over 1200m and that’s a big advantage at Hastings.

“We expect to see her finish off well and if she’s doing her best work late then we’ll be happy. If she was able to win, it would signify that she is pretty special.”

Orchestral was runner-up on debut before she went one better next time out and performances that elevated her to the top of the early Guineas market.

“At this stage, it is well on our radar. You only want to be taking them to Christchurch if you think you’re a big chance of winning, especially now we’ve got a $1.5 million race (Karaka Million 3YO Classic, 1600m) just up the road,” Wellwood said.

Bred by Barneswood Farm, Orchestral was purchased out of Haunui Farm's 2022 New Zealand Bloodstock Yearling draft for $625,000.