In a quiet racing period for Cambridge trainer Andrew Forsman, he has the advantage of two quality gallopers contesting the open-class races through the winter in Turn The Ace and Wessex.

Promising four-year-old Knight’s Realm could book his ticket south to the Gr.3 Winter Cup (1600m) at Riccarton next month if he performs up to expectations in the J F Grylls Memorial Classic (1400m) at Te Rapa on Saturday.

Moira and Kieran Murdoch’s renowned beach training has turned around the careers of countless gallopers over the years, and former Taranaki star Shamus added his name to that list in Saturday’s $40,000 Northpine Waipu Cup (1400m) at Ruakaka.

While a firm plan has yet to be locked into place, Gentian Blue’s connections are giving thought to a trip across the Tasman.

A hard-fought front running victory by Malborough Bay at Tauranga on Saturday provided another feather in the cap of Te Akau Racing.

The Listed Team Wealleans Tauranga Classic (1600m) produced one of the most popular winners in its 44-year history with Saturday’s black-type breakthrough by local mare Casino Princess.

Sam Spratt’s ability to control races from the front has been no secret this season, and she was at her very best early at Tauranga with a top ride aboard promising three-year-old Did The Trick.

A spectacular lead-up performance at Ruakaka has given Shaun and Emma Clotworthy confidence that their stable star Malt Time is primed for a bold showing in Saturday's Listed Team Wealleans Tauranga Classic (1400m).

Cornelia made a bright start to her career with a pair of impressive performances during the summer, and the talented filly will add interest to the early part of Saturday’s Tauranga meeting when she resumes in the Gartshore Construction 3YO (1300m).

Chilli Con Khan could have been described as leftovers at one point in her life but was given a chance by Murray Garrett and the Pukekohe trainer was rewarded with an impressive maiden win at his home track on Wednesday.

Ortega has earned a late season shot at black type following her midweek success at Pukekohe.

All key indicators point to proven winter performer Poser going close to adding to her record at Tauranga on Saturday.

Wexford Stables hope to live up to the name of their Pukekohe victor in Winexpress when they take a strong team to Tauranga on Saturday.

Shane Brown is quietly confident his mares can give bold black type accounts of themselves on Saturday.