Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott can strengthen their New Zealand Derby hand if Charles Road lifts to another level in the G2 Avondale Guineas (2000m) on Saturday reports NZ Breeding
The Matamata trainers have no doubt about the well-related gelding’s talent, but his lack of experience is a concern.
Charles Road is a son of Vinery sire Myboycharlie and has a win and three placings from his four appearances. He finished strongly for second behind Camino Rocoso over 1600m last time out at Ellerslie.
“Craig Williams got off and said he was still very raw, but he believed he had more than his share of ability,” Scott said. “He’s coming to hand well now and holding his condition, which is important at this time of the year. He’s still improving and will be going around two corners for the first time, but he’s making good progress.
“If he runs really well again then we would have to give him his chance in the Derby. The question mark could be the track if there’s rain – he’s never run on bad ground.”
Myboycharlie sired Charles Road from a half-sister to Singapore Horse of the Year War Affair (O’Reilly). He is currently at $18 for the NZ Derby on March 4.
