Racing: Good bet on Vegas Showgirl

Hope springs eternal in racing - ask longtime horse owner Reg Durrant.

The veteran Rotorua-based Durrant shared in the ownership of yesterday's stunning winner of the $30,000 New Zealand Bloodstock Stakes at Avondale, Vegas Showgirl.

He has not enjoyed great health in recent times, but he wasn't prepared to let that dampen down his optimism yesterday.

And it wasn't just for this win, it was for what the impressive Vegas Showgirl might produce next season as a 3-year-old.

Durrant is used to success at the top end - he owned Caulfield Cup winner Analight and is happy to relay stories of a massive punt he had on the mare.

"Did you see the way she came down that home straight," said an excited Durrant.

That was certainly the most impressive part of Vegas Showgirl yesterday.

Favourite and leader Crepe De Chine showed rugged pace and didn't look like stopping in the closing stages - Vegas Showgirl had to go and get her and she dashed clear once she got her head in front to clock a fast 1.9.67 for the 1200m.

Trainer Stephen Autridge said almost certainly Vegas Showgirl would be put in the spelling paddock immediately.

"She can have four weeks off then be prepared for the spring 3-year-old fillies' races. She can handle a wet track, so she will be well suited."

The win took the unstoppable Lisa Cropp to 139 wins for the season and in the following race she went to 140 with her win aboard the favourite Star Of Rio.

Crepe De Chine held well for second ahead of Alma June, who just shaded the unlucky Missy Elliot.

Missy Elliot got squeezed out of a tight spot nearing the end of the back straight, clipped a heel on the way out the back of the gap and dipped so badly she nearly dropped Trudy Thornton on the track.

"I was sure we were heading for the ground," said Thornton.

"It cost her five lengths and she would have been right there with the winner if she had enjoyed a clear run. Not many horses will pick themselves up from a check like that and rally again. It was a terrific effort."

An Australian campaign at the Queensland winter carnival is being considered for Missy Elliot.

"She is looking to run further than the 1200m and a couple of the races the owner is looking at are 1500m, so that will suit her perfectly."

Impressive trials winner Altesino did well to finish sixth in her debut.

* Nominations close today for the $1 million Kelt Capital Stakes in the spring and the Hawkes Bay Jockey Club is hoping the rumour mill is on the money.

CEO John McGifford said there was a strong suggestion David Hayes would nominate Elegant Fashion, who ran in the QE Cup in Hong Kong on Sunday night.

Hayes is returning to train in Australia after a decade in Hong Kong and will be taking Elegant Fashion with him.