Trainers Simon and Katrina Alexander are contemplating options on both sides of the Tasman with their multiple Group 1 winner La Crique following a pleasing barrier trial at Taupo on Monday.
The seven-year-old daughter of Vadamos comfortably took out her 900m heat by 1-1/4 lengths, giving her connections plenty of confidence heading into the spring.
The Alexanders have had their patience tested with their star mare, with feet issues curtailing a number of her preparations, and they reared their head again in autumn when prematurely ending her Australian campaign.
Australia has always been the main aim for La Crique this spring, however, her trainers haven’t ruled out remaining in New Zealand to tackle the spring carnival triple crown, which is set to take place at Ellerslie and Te Rapa this year.
“That (Australia) was our original thought,” Katrina Alexander said. “We have obviously opted to come here (Taupo trials) and will most likely stay here (New Zealand) for at least the first race of that series (Group 1 Proisir Plate, 1400m), and we are just going to play it by ear.
“Physically she looks great, but I am mindful that she is a seven-year-old mare.
“We have been to Australia and struck a problem before, and we don’t want a repeat of that costly exercise.
“We want to go with a good, competitive article. That first race (Proisir Plate) is going to be at Ellerslie, which gives us a little more confidence to hang around.”
