By MIKE DILLON
Moira Murdoch will today make a three-state Australian decision on where the winner of yesterday's $40,000 HIH Insurance Classic, Zespri Gold, will race in the next six weeks.
"My first inclination was the Frank Packer Plate in Sydney, but I'm not sure," said Murdoch after Zespri Gold outgunned a tough late challenge from Nikisha.
"But I'm still thinking about either Adelaide or the Queensland winter carnival," said Murdoch.
The track conditions concern Murdoch much more than the strength of opposition.
"I was a little worried about the testing conditions today because my horses are beach trained and all of them tend to handle conditions that are either firm or loose.
"When it's testing like today, they're not used to it.
"The weather is almost always good in Adelaide at this time of year and that might be the best option. Queensland can also be very wet. The thing I need to consider is that she's a 3-year-old filly and I have to be aware of how she will land in an Australian setting."
If Murdoch takes the Adelaide option, it means Zespri Gold will take on the $A200,000 Australsian Oaks on Saturday, but the push may not be a problem - Zespri Gold has already taken on a pressure-cooked 1300m-2000m-2400m preparation.
Rider Gary Grylls felt it was a good win given Zespri Gold did not handle the conditions perfectly.
"She felt she would be better if the footing was looser. Also, she's got a bit to learn. When Nikisha was a fair width from us halfway down the home straight she was fighting okay, but when the other horse drifted out and was close to us, she surged again."
Tio Lavender deserved her win in the $18,000 Swiss Deli Handicsp.
She had sat three wide in midfield when second to Zapeace at Te Rapa at her previous start.
Tio Lavender is the last horse of more than 20 raced in New Zealand by Japanese owner Toshi Oki, who last year temporarily moved his operation to Sydney, selling most of his team.
There were several smart winners, none more impressive than Zabeel's Angel, but you might have to wait to get on next time.
"I think she's probably ended up with shin soreness as a result of the win," said Bob Vance, husband of trainer Jenny Vance.
"That won't do her any harm because she's a filly who will improve with time. She's a typical Zabeel, she's got a bit to learn yet."
Roger James produced a good training performance to win with Refused The Dance after a 10 and a half month break.
Racing: Adelaide may be best for Zespri Gold
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