Racing: Late run by Focal Point is timed perfectly

Ruakaka-based trainers Donna and Dean Logan knew jockey Leith Innes was confident about the winning chances of Focal Point in the $60,000 Gasmate Stakes at Te Rapa yesterday.

However, the well-respected trainers were hitting the panic button 200 metres from the winning post when the 5-year-old mare was working into the race, but appeared to have left her challenge far too late.

Focal Point produced her best work when it was required, reeling in Kew to score by a half-head in the Group Two feature event, with a further three-quarters of a length back to Native Song (third).

Innes had ridden Focal Point in her last start, when they easily accounted for a good-quality field at Ellerslie two weeks ago.

"When we contacted Leith about riding the mare in her next start we asked him what would be the better option between the 1600 metre race here at Te Rapa or a 2000 metre race.

"He told us it wouldn't matter where we started her because she's such a relaxed mare that she will get the distance and race very well.

"I was starting to panic at the top of the straight because I thought that maybe Leith was a little too confident at being off the pace, but she got up and won and it's a great result for the owners.

"This win has increased her value as a broodmare and she's a very exciting horse to have in our stable.

"Her next start will be over 2000 metres in a couple of weeks' time, then we may look at starting her in the City Of Auckland Cup ($200,000 Group Two event) at Ellerslie on January 1.

"It's a 2400-metre race and I think she's ready for a middle distance.

"It is an ideal opportunity to put her up against the top racehorses."

- HERALD ON SUNDAY