The re-match of Seachange and Darci Brahma in the Group 1 $150,000 Stoney Bridge Stakes (1600m) at Hastings on Saturday will provide a major highlight of New Zealand racing this weekend.
The pair met in the Mudgway Partsworld Stakes (1400m) at Hastings three weeks ago with Seachange coming out on top to score from Darci Brahma.
Both horses claimed Group 1 prizes last season with Seachange winning the New Zealand Bloodstock 1000 Guineas at Riccarton and Darci Brahma winning the New Zealand Two Thousand Guineas and Otaki Maori Weight-For-Age.
Seachange will be ridden by Gavin McKeon while Darci Brahma has the services of Michael Walker.
Seachange has drawn barrier 9 while Darci Brahma will begin from the outside barrier (12).
They will not have things all their own way with last season's dual Group 1 winner Kristov sure to prove troublesome along with Hurrah, Legs and Calveen. Another who could worry the star four-year-olds is last season's New Zealand Bloodstock Filly Of The Year Shikoba if she starts here in preference to Paeroa.
Selections:
1. Sunrize, Sculptor, Two Crowns.
2. Alamosa, Bella Renza, Sentura.
3. Mr Omegan, Taiko, Stilicho.
4. Alberto, Mon Reve, Giovanni.
5. Naturo, Chartreuse, Italia.
6. Cedar Manor, Zarius, Shamrock Star.
7. Figueres, Saucy Az, Pinto Grigio.
8. Seachange, Darci Brahma, Kristov.
9. Baldessarini, Clifton Prince, Manten.
10. Kay's Awake, Vegas Showgirl, Rosetti Bay.
Best Bet: Alamosa.
