Go Nicholas strengthened trainer Shelley Hale’s hand in the upcoming Gr.2 Easter Handicap (1600m) when he came from last to win at Rotorua on Monday.
Under 59.5kg in the Carters Your Building Partners 1400m, the Danroad six-year-old improved around runners near the turn for rider Grant Cooksley and quickly put the issue beyond doubt in the straight.
“I was a bit anxious about being at the back with the big weight and then come around them, but he got the job done,” said Hale, who also co-bred and part-owns Go Nicholas.
“Hopefully, he’ll be a good second stringer in the Easter. He’ll get in on a lowish weight.”
At the other end of the handicap will be stablemate Seventh Up, who will be the defending Easter champion.
“He’ll go to Te Aroha on Saturday and then the Easter again,” Hale said.
