Ustinov mare targets Tauranga Classic

A change of environment has worked wonders for both Faraway Eyes (NZ) and her part-owner and trainer Michael Lawlor.

“I shifted to Byerley Park about a month ago and it’s a magnificent facility,” he said.  “I’ve got four in work and they’ve all thrived – they’ve grown another leg since they’ve been here.

“I hand walk Faraway Eyes every afternoon and there’s lovely sandy walkways and beautiful country.  I’m a country boy at heart and I’m thriving as well.”

Faraway Eyes (4m Ustinov – O’Really Impulsive by O’Reilly) was an impressive last-start win at Ellerslie and that result reflected the benefits of her new surroundings.  Lawlor is confident she can continue that good form in the LR Tauranga Classic on Saturday.

“She’s as bright as a button and she’s got a lot of ability – I think she can be right in it again,” he said.  “She loves the cut out of the ground and it all went to order last time out.

“If she runs well on Saturday, I think we will go to the Opunake Cup.  That fits in well and I would like to try her over a mile this preparation.  She’s strengthened and matured a lot the last six months.”

The Takanini mare is by former Brighthill Farm sire Ustinov who is now based at Moorookyle Park in Victoria.

Ustinov is a USA bred son of Seeking The Gold and Australian Hall of Fame mare Let’s Elope.  He was a G2 winner of the AAMI Vase at Moonee Valley and was also runner-up in the G1 Caulfield Guineas and G1 AJC Champagne Stakes.

Ustinov stands for a fee of $4,400 (inc gst) at Moorookyle Park which is located 25km north of Ballarat.  For further details contact Nioka Wozny on 0427 456 385.