Racing: Smart mare set to end her strong season at Awapuni

Yearn at Ellerslie. Photo / NZ Racing Desk

The connections of Yearn have decided against going to the well once too often with the talented mare and she will be spelled after she steps out at Awapuni today.

Consideration had been given to a tilt at the Gr.1 Fiber Fresh New Zealand Thoroughbred Breeders' Stakes (1600m), but those plans have now been shelved.

"We've decided against the Group One and we'll be turning her out after Awapuni," owner Mark Lupton said.

"We just think she's not really ready for a mile.

"She needs the pace on otherwise she doesn't settle.

"Anyway, she's done more than enough this preparation - she's won five races so we'll be waiting for the spring with her."

Saturday's Listed Bramco Granite & Marble Flying Handicap (1400m) presents the Karen Fursdon-trained Savabeel four-year-old with a final opportunity at black type for this campaign.

"She galloped extra well on Wednesday morning and we're thrilled with her," Lupton said.

"Karen suggested the Flying Handicap.

"And it's a nice opportunity over 1400m and as it's Listed so it's worth a shot."

While Yearn has yet to win over 1600m, Lupton said he fancied her chances of coping with the trip in the future.

"I think she will be a decent miler, it's just that she's had no luck so far. In the Rich Hill Mile she was five wide and then four wide on the turn before she got checked and Trudy [Thornton] lost a stirrup iron so she had no chance at all.

"She's not big, but she's got the heart of a lion.

"So we'll see what the spring brings for us."

- NZ Racing Desk