Pam Gerard, a renowned trainer in the New Zealand racing scene, is gearing up for another successful spring season with her star horses, Romanoff and Affirmative Action. These two horses, who quinellaed the Group 1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas last year, are now preparing for their upcoming races, with Gerard expressing optimism about their progress.
Romanoff and Affirmative Action had their first public trial of the season at the Te Rapa trials, where they showcased their potential. Affirmative Action dominated his 1100m heat, while Romanoff finished strongly in second place behind Dusty Road. These results indicate that both horses are on track for their spring targets.
Gerard is particularly pleased with Affirmative Action's development, noting his increased size, confidence, and mental strength. She attributes this to a well-deserved rest period, which has allowed him to recover from a demanding previous season. The trainer is confident that Affirmative Action is heading in the right direction, as evidenced by his easy performance in the trial.
The next significant race on Affirmative Action's calendar is the Gr.1 Proisir Plate, a 1400m event at Ellerslie. Gerard is optimistic about his chances, but acknowledges the strong competition. She also has a backup plan if Affirmative Action doesn't qualify for the Proisir Plate, ensuring his confidence remains high.
Romanoff, on the other hand, is being kept for the latter stages of the Spring Triple Crown at Hastings. This includes the Group 1 Howden Insurance Mile and Group 1 Livamol Classic, where his late-race strength will be crucial. Gerard's satisfaction with Romanoff's performance suggests that he is also on course for a successful spring campaign.
Gerard's strategic approach to training and her keen eye for talent have positioned her as a leading trainer in New Zealand. Her ability to identify and nurture potential, as seen with Romanoff and Affirmative Action, is a testament to her skill. As the spring season unfolds, Gerard's horses are poised to make their mark, with the potential for significant achievements in the upcoming races.
