New Zealand's highest-profile galloper enjoyed a trip to Taupo this morning to further her preparation for a return to the Melbourne spring carnival.
The Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman-trained
multiple Group One winner Bonneval stretched her legs during a 1000m gallop alongside
Jon Snow and they finished on terms.
"It was a nice hit-out, just a day away from the stable to break up the routine," Forsman said.
Bonneval's recovery from a suspensory ligament injury suffered in the summer has delighted her connections.
"Everything is looking good and the joint seems fine," Forsman said. "We'll know far more after the Te Teko trials (August 7) and then make firm plans for Melbourne from there."
Bonneval won the Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks (2400m) and the Gr.1 Australian Oaks (2400m) during her three-year-old season to claim the New Zealand Horse of the Year title.
Victories in the Gr.1 Underwood Stakes (1800m) and Gr.2 Dato Tan Chin Nam Stakes (1600m) in Australia last spring make Bonneval a short-priced favourite to retain her crown.
"We've nominated Jon Snow for the Tarzino Trophy and he's probably 50-50 about going there at this stage. Again, we'll make a decision after Te Teko," Forsman said.
The Gr.1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m) at Hastings is on Francaletta's programme and she will open her programme in the Gr.2 Lisa Chittick Foxbridge Plate (1200m) at Te Rapa a fortnight earlier on August 18.
"She's got a date with Savabeel at some stage in the spring so whether that allows her to get back to Australia we'll wait and see," Forsman said.
Francaletta was also in the travelling party to Taupo and was paired in her gallop with the Listed Champagne Stakes (1600m) winner Rubira, another possible Melbourne spring carnival contender. – NZ Racing Desk.
