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Ellerslie back-up to suit filly; Progressive mare to spell; Filly makes perfect start; Stablemates primed for Group One.

Ellerslie back-up to suit filly

Improvement is expected from Darci’s Dream in the Gr.2 NZB Royal Stakes at Ellerslie on Boxing Day.

The daughter of Darci Brahma finished seventh in the Gr.2 Eight Carat Classic on Boxing Day, her first appearance she was runner-up in the Gr.1 New Zealand 1000 Guineas.

“She’s a gross-doing filly and she will really benefit from her first-up run,” trainer Jason Bridgman said.

“We’re keen to back her up and give her a look at 2000 metres to see if she stays, with the Derby and Oaks in mind, before ruling out other mile options.”

Progressive mare to spell

One of the spring and summer’s biggest movers has been sent for a break.

The Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman-trained Sports Illustrated made impressive progress after winning a Rating 75 event at Ellerslie.

She stepped up to claim the Gr.2 Cal Isuzu Stakes next time out before failing in the Gr.1 Zabeel Classic after a wide run.

Filly makes perfect start

Perfect Fit looked a filly to follow through her summer campaign after she made an impressive winning debut at Taupo on Tuesday.

The daughter of Elusive City and the multiple Group One winner Fayreform was untouched by Michael Coleman to score by three and a-quarter lengths.

“Michael has said she’s the best three-year-old filly we’ve got, so that’s a big call,” co-trainer Ken Kelso said.

“We’ll take her quietly through the grades. She’s got enormous potential and a nice action to go with it.”

Stablemates primed for Group One

John Bell is delighted with both his Gr.1 Sistema Railway Stakes contenders leading into the New Year’s Day feature.

Bell and training partner Mark Donoghue will be represented by Mosse and Pizzazz at Ellerslie.

“Mosse has got unbelievable class and the other horse is an amazing sprinter,” Bell said.

Mosse showed he was close to a return to winning form with a last-start third in the Gr.3 Concorde Handicap while Pizzazz has had little luck in his last two appearances.