"Cool Aza Rene shines at Riccarton, showcasing her extraordinary talent and impeccable lineage, setting the stage for a promising racing career as she aims for more victories under the Te Akau banner."
Once again showcasing her racing talent, Cool Aza Rene put on an impressive display at Riccarton on Wednesday, garnering the interest of experienced racing fans. The young filly, supported by the strong Te Akau team under the leadership of trainers Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, maintained her perfect record, solidifying her position as a burgeoning star in the Matamata stable.
After her standout debut at Otaki last month, where she finished ahead of the eventual winner Abbakiss, Cool Aza Rene arrived at Riccarton carrying high expectations. Once again teaming up with Craig Grylls, who had previously steered her to victory at Otaki, the filly showcased her dominance on the second day of the New Zealand Cup carnival. Her impressive performance highlighted not just her talent but also the burgeoning synergy between her and Grylls, as they continue to elevate each other's performance on the racetrack.
Trainer Sam Bergerson praised Cool Aza Rene’s preparedness and determination. “She’s a wonderful filly with a lot of heart and fitness for her age. Since her debut, she hasn’t faltered, and her determination was clear today as she battled every step of the way,” he said. This combination of raw talent and an almost natural racing instinct has led many to predict that she has significant future potential.
Cool Aza Rene’s lineage stands as a homage to the prestigious legacy of Te Akau. She is the inaugural winner sired by Cool Aza Beel, a distinguished juvenile from Te Akau who claimed victories in the Group 1 Sistema Stakes and the Listed Karaka Millions. Bred at Newhaven Park, Cool Aza Rene was purchased for $55,000 at the Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale by David Ellis, highlighting Te Akau’s discerning talent identification. Her mother, Irene, is a descendant of the remarkable Xtravagant, a two-time Group One champion who represented Te Akau in the New Zealand 2000 Guineas and NRM Sprint. This esteemed pedigree, rich with champions, enriches the legacy and expectations surrounding Cool Aza Rene’s emerging career.
The race at Riccarton showcased Cool Aza Rene's remarkable ability to stay composed under pressure. She broke from the gates smoothly, positioning herself just off the leader before taking command 200 meters from the finish line, a display that highlighted her maturity and composure. Grylls praised her calm demeanor prior to the race, remarking, "She’s all class – she was so at ease, you’d think she was a pony at a children’s event. Once she took the lead, she began to glance around, but even then, she maintained complete control." This combination of serene confidence and dynamic energy on the racetrack positions her as a valuable asset for Te Akau.
As we look to the future, the Group 2 Wakefield Challenge Stakes at Trentham next month is approaching, offering Cool Aza Rene a chance to continue her unbeaten run. At Riccarton, her rivals demonstrated potential as well, notably Miss Ziggy, trained by Andrew Carston, who set a strong early pace and fought hard to secure second place. Being a daughter of Brazen Beau, she might also aim for the Listed Karaka Millions, bringing added excitement to the upcoming racing season.
Quisiera, another reliable competitor, finished in third place, showcasing her abilities under the guidance of John and Karen Parsons. Cool Aza Rene’s journey is only just starting, yet her performances reflect a maturity and talent that suggest a promising future in the sport. With her remarkable pedigree and resolute spirit, she is set not only to uphold her family's legacy but also to forge her own narrative within New Zealand's racing elite.
