Racing: Going too heavy for NZ hopeful

The heavy storms that hit Melbourne on Saturday put paid to the chances of Royal Pericles in the Blue Diamond Stakes, says Auckland trainer Bruce Wallace.

"It was just too heavy for him," Wallace said.

Royal Pericles finished 11th in the 13-horse field, fading out of contention soon after they turned into the home straight after racing midfield and wide.

"[Jockey] Gary Grylls said he was just dipping and diving all the over the place," Wallace said.

"He was struggling. I don't think he lacked speed but it turned into a mile race in those conditions, it was a real slog. It's a pity because he had done so well and galloped up really well on Thursday morning."

Wallace said Royal Pericles was returning to New Zealand and would probably race in the $150,000 Diamond Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie on March 11.

That will determine whether he contests the Golden Slipper Stakes at Rosehill in Sydney on April 8.

Also on Saturday, New Zealand mare She's Justa Tad finished fourth in the group-two St George Stakes over 1800m.

It was the mare's first run in her autumn campaign and though she was well beaten by Our Smoking Joe and Lad Of The Manor, the conditions did not suit her.

- NZPA