Racing: Volkstok'n'barrell left to fly the flag

Wyndspelle is heading to Melbourne. Photo / Trish Dunell

The early season group one challenge of Donna Logan and Chris Gibbs has been dealt a blow.

The Ruakaka trainers will now be relying on the well-performed Volkstok'n'barrell to fly the stable flag during the Hawke's Bay spring carnival after Wyndspelle was notably among the first withdrawals from the group one Tarzino Trophy.

The connections of the stakes-winning four-year-old have unexpectedly decided to send their son of Iffraaj across the Tasman.

"Wyndspelle is going to be flying to Melbourne to join the stable of Mick Price," Logan said.

The winner of the Gr.2 Waikato Guineas and group one placed in the Diamond Stakes during his two-year-old campaign, Wyndspelle had recently finished sixth when resuming over 1200m on his home course.

Plans for Volkstok'n'barrell remain unchanged with the loyal stable servant making excellent progress toward his Te Rapa return to racing on August 19.

"Volkstok'n'barrell is looking at the Foxbridge Plate and that will then set him up for the last two group ones at Hawke's Bay," Logan said.

The Tavistock gelding returned to his best to win the Gr. 1 Herbie Dyke Stakes in February before a hoof issue prevented him from defending his Gr.1 New Zealand Stakes title and he was turned out.

Logan said Volkstok'n'barrell, who also has group one wins in the Rosehill Guineas and the Haunui Farm Classic on his record, had done particularly well during his time away.

- NZ Racing Desk