Racing: Levante set for big night at Karaka Million
3 Jan, 2021 09:00 AM
3 minutes to read
By: Michael Guerin
New Zealand s most exciting emerging race mare Levante will bypass the Telegraph at Trentham to add more glamour to Karaka Million night at Ellerslie. That sets up a potential clash with the country s most improved race mare in Showoroses.
The 4-year-olds provided some of the fireworks at Ellerslie s huge New Year s Day meeting, with Showoroses leading all the way in the $100,000 Rich Hill Mile, while Levante roared home from last for a stunning third in the Railway.
Co-trainer Ken Kelso confirmed Levante won t be heading south for the Telegraph.
Racing: Chris Johnson breaks all-time jockey record for wins in New Zealand
19 Dec, 2020 10:30 AM
4 minutes to read
Chris Johnson drives Sassenach to the line to claim victory and the national record at Awapuni. Photo / Race Images
Chris Johnson drives Sassenach to the line to claim victory and the national record at Awapuni. Photo / Race Images
NZ Herald
Veteran jockey Chris Magic Johnson established a national record for race victories at Awapuni when Sassenach provided him with win 2452 in New Zealand.
The 56-year-old required one winner to surpass the previous mark set by David Walsh after drawing level at Invercargill last Saturday.
Rider Troy Harris had a lapful of horse as he angled into the clear at the 300m where Tavi Mac dashed to the front and cleared out from his rivals, eventually posting a one and a half-length winning margin over Callsign Mav with southern mare Kiwi Ida taking third. Sharrock makes no secret of the affection he holds for his pint-sized poster boy. “He has a special place in my heart, this horse,” Sharrock said. “He’s not the best horse I’ve ever trained, but he is the toughest I’ve ever laid a hand on. “The tenacity he shows every time he lines up is just amazing.