Alexandra Park

Another thrilling edition of the Group One Magness Benrow Sires Stakes 3YO Fillies Final, but it was SECRET WISH who came out on top✨🏆

Prepared by Hayden & Amanda Cullen, SECRET WISH was given a masterful drive by Blair Orange, who made full use of barrier one to secure the trail throughout before exploding up the passing lane, holding off a late charging Indulge Me (Nathan Williamson) to seal a deserved Group One victory.

The win completed a Group One double on the night for Blair Orange during the final evening of our Northern Lights Carnival, continuing his incredible Autumn run in the sulky.

Congratulations to owners & breeders: Studholme Bloodstock Limited

✨ What a way to bring the Northern Lights Carnival to a close last Friday night — five Group One races, outstanding performances, fairytale moments, and new names etched into the history books.

➡️ The opening Group One feature of the night was the IRT Young Guns Eastern Light Classic 2YO Trot Final.

🏆 APOLLO ELEVEN produced another faultless display from barrier one, leading from mobile to post in the hands of Peter Ferguson, capping off a near-perfect preparation for the talented son of Bold Eagle.

The victory was made even more special as it delivered the first Group One success for the training partnership of Dylan Ferguson & Jo Ferguson - and Jo’s first Gr.1 of her career.

🎉 Congratulations to the huge ownership group who packed out the winners circle and shared in an unforgettable night:
Mrs Jo Ferguson, Breckon Racing Syndicate, 5 Wise Men Syndicate, Kevin Robinson, Mrs Brenda Armstrong, John Kriechbaumer, Richard Cole, Off N Racing Teddy Turbo Syndicate, Ferguson Racing Super Six Syndicate, Steve Taylor, Craig McKay, Robbie Patterson, Alex Forbes, Bill Stevens, Craig Grylls & Mark Baz Ryan.

Last week’s Roy Purdon Memorial Pace winner GOT THE CHOCOLATES has stamped himself as one of the leading chances for Friday night’s Group 1 Dawson Harford NZ Messenger.

The classy son of Art Major announced his arrival on the open class scene with an outstanding victory last week, when driver John Dunn found a gap from three the fence, he powered home to defeat a quality field and continue his terrific run of form for trainers Robert & Jenna Dunn,

Now, all eyes turn to Friday night’s feature pace, where Got The Chocolates has opened the market as the short priced favourite for one of Auckland's most prestigious pacing titles!

Be on course to witness all the group one racing action!
https://www.alexandrapark.co.nz/race-night/friday-8-may-rowe-cup-at-top-of-the-park-08-05-2026/

Diamond Racing Stables

Woodlands Stud NZ Northern Derby 2026

JUMAL

Another elite performance from the outstanding Downbytheseaside c**t, adding yet another Gr.1 victory to his impressive record for trainer Steven Reid.

Despite copping pressure early, Blair Orange remained in front, controlling the race from start to finish before kicking clear for a comfortable 1.5 length victory.

The classy son of Downbytheseaside continues to stamp himself as one of the standout pacers of his generation, combining toughness, speed and sheer professionalism on the biggest stage.

Congratulations to owners: M G Wrigley, Miss I A D Storer