NZ - Te Rapa - Race 5

PARTY TIME (10) stuck to her task gamely fresh up at Ellerslie nearly 3 weeks ago, peaking late, and finishing third less than a length from the winner. She cops another wide gate, but with Michael McNab picking up the ride, she should be among the hardest to beat. RIOJA (11) has been given time to mature, and has been showing plenty of promise in her short career to date. She may already be wanting more ground, but with a couple of trials under her belt, she will be ready to rumble fresh up. MAGIC CARPET (1) did not race up to expectations in some hot 3YO fields earlier in the year, but his spring form was very good. He has trialled up twice, and must be kept safe in all top 4 combos. NAVY ENSIGN (2) made plenty of progress as a 3YO, and he is all set for another good season after winning a recent Ellerslie trial. If he doesn't need the run, then he can figure in the top 3 fresh. WISE CHOICE (6) won his maiden here by a nose nearly 9 weeks ago. Stick with him.