Racing: Steeplechasing path to National Hurdles

The Grand National Hurdles (4200m) at Riccarton is again the goal for Go Go Gonzo. Photo / Wild Range Photography

The end goal for Go Go Gonzo remains the same as last winter, but a significant change in approach is planned.

The Sean Cameron-trained jumper finished runner-up in the 2017 Grand National Hurdles (4200m) and the Riccarton feature is again his target.

However, Go Go Gonzo's lead-up racing will focus on the bigger fences following his appearance at Riverton today in the Donald White Hedgecutting Open Hurdle (2500m).

"He'll be going steeplechasing through the middle part of the season before he goes back to the National Hurdles," Cameron said.

"He's getting up in the weights now and he's only a small horse."

Go Go Gonzo was out of the money when he opened his current campaign over 1800m at New Plymouth and was again unplaced over 2200m at Wingatui earlier this month.

"I think he's come back better than ever, even though his two flat runs may not indicate that," Cameron said.

"He was probably a bit disappointing the other day, but he was back on the fence and they walked and sprinted and he just got left flat-footed.

"He pulled up well and he's done everything right since then."

Part of a 12-strong team Cameron has taken south, Go Go Gonzo will be ridden at Riverton by Hamish McNeill. He guided him to victory in last season's Sydenham Hurdles (3100m) before they finished second to Ready Eddie in the National.

- NZ Racing Desk