Blake Shinn’s Potential Summer Ride with Te Akau: Exciting Jockey Plans for Major Racedays
Blake Shinn has been riding at Matamata for a few days, and Te Akau plans to use him during the summer racing carnivals. Australian racing calendars have fewer major events in December and January, which might help Te Akau attract Shinn and other top jockeys for important races like the Zabeel Classic and Karaka Millions.
The best scenario would be bringing James McDonald back for the Karaka Millions, as he attracts many spectators and increases revenue. However, McDonald is currently racing in Hong Kong and recently rode Romantic Warrior.
Opie Bosson, Te Akau’s main rider for a decade, is back to trackwork but not racing yet. Te Akau will rely on Wiremu Pinn for their top horses in the upcoming weeks.
How is Opie Bosson’s situation affecting Te Akau Racing’s jockey strategy as the summer carnivals approach?
Interview with Te Akau Racing Specialist on Jockey Arrangements and Upcoming Races
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us. It’s an exciting time in New Zealand racing, particularly with the summer carnivals approaching. Blake Shinn has been riding at Matamata lately. What does his presence mean for Te Akau Racing?
Specialist: Blake Shinn’s presence is significant for us, especially as we gear up for the summer racing carnivals. His experience and skill can greatly enhance our chances in major races. With the Australian racing calendar being quieter in December and January, we see an opportunity to attract top talent like Shinn for important events like the Zabeel Classic and Karaka Millions.
Interviewer: Speaking of the Karaka Millions, there’s been much discussion about bringing James McDonald back for that. Can you update us on his situation?
Specialist: Yes, James McDonald is certainly a priority for us. He has a tremendous following and his involvement would undoubtedly elevate the event, drawing in more spectators and increasing revenue. However, he is currently racing in Hong Kong and recently had a successful ride on Romantic Warrior. Until his schedule opens up, we’ll be looking at other options.
Interviewer: Opie Bosson has been a key rider for Te Akau for a decade. How is he doing, and how does his situation influence your jockey strategy in the interim?
Specialist: Opie is back to trackwork, which is promising, but he hasn’t returned to racing yet. In the meantime, we’re preparing to rely on Wiremu Pinn for our top horses. He has shown great potential and is ready to step up during this crucial period.
Interviewer: On the horse side of things, we heard that Captured By Love and Mehzebeen have some movement in plans. Can you elaborate on that?
Specialist: Yes, indeed. Captured By Love, after her impressive win in the Guineas, is likely heading to our Victorian stable. Given that she’s not eligible for the Karaka Millions, racing in Australia is a sensible path for her. As for Mehzebeen, the New Zealand Cup winner, we believe she may also find opportunities in Victoria next season. We are keen to explore what options are available for her in Melbourne.
Interviewer: It sounds like there are exciting times ahead for Te Akau Racing. Thank you for providing these insights!
Specialist: Thank you for having me. We’re looking forward to a vibrant racing season with plenty of action!
Captured By Love, after winning the Guineas, is likely heading to the Victorian stable. She is not eligible for the Karaka Millions, so Te Akau plans to race her in Australia. Ellis believes Mehzebeen, the New Zealand Cup winner, may also race in Victoria as she might have opportunities in Melbourne next season.