Crocetti, the standout sprinter, returns to the track with renewed vigor, eyeing prestigious races ahead. Following a stellar performance in his youth, all eyes are on his quest for glory this summer!
Group 1-winning sprinter Crocetti made a notable stride toward his eagerly awaited return to racing with an impressive exhibition gallop between races at Pukekohe on Thursday. The four-year-old, who made a significant impact in New Zealand's three-year-old racing scene last season, appeared to be in excellent shape as he readied himself for the challenges that lie ahead.
Crocetti, the progeny of Zacinto, emerged as a prominent figure among his peers, achieving an impressive record of six wins in seven races last season. His most significant accomplishment was a commanding victory in the Group 1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m). Additionally, he secured a Group 2 win in the Sarten Memorial (1400m) as well as Group 3 victories in both the Almanzor Trophy (1200m) and Northland Breeders’ Stakes (1200m), solidifying his reputation as one of the most thrilling horses in the nation.
His sole setback occurred in the Group 1 BCD Group Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa, where he secured second place behind Bonny Lass while competing against older horses, highlighting that even top contenders can encounter obstacles. Trainers Danny Walker and Arron Tata originally aimed for the prestigious A$10 million Golden Eagle (1500m) in Sydney. However, following Crocetti's disappointing seventh-place finish as the favorite in the Group 1 Tarzino Trophy (1400m) at Hastings on September 7, they decided to grant the horse a three-week break to recover.
The gallop on Thursday provided additional insight into his preparedness for the upcoming challenges. "He performed very well today," he remarked. "I was quite pleased with him, and he seems to be in great shape as we approach the summer campaign." Looking forward, the Counties Bowl (Group 3, 1100m) at Pukekohe on November 23 seems to be the likely starting point for Crocetti. This race also marks the first leg of the newly established Champion Sprint Series, which will include prominent races such as the Group 3 Concorde Stakes (1200m) at Ellerslie, the Listed Hazlett Stakes (1400m) at Wingatui, and the Group 1 Telegraph (1200m) at Trentham, among others.
The Champion Sprint Series will award points to the top four finishers in each race, culminating in a $500,000 bonus pool for the owners of the three horses with the highest total points throughout the series. Bookmakers have identified Crocetti as a leading contender, listing him as a $4 favorite for both the Group 1 Telegraph on January 4 and the Group 1 Railway (1200m) at Ellerslie on January 25. In the Railway market, he competes alongside the promising three-year-old filly Alabama Lass.
As Crocetti focuses on these prestigious marquee races, there will surely be much attention on his performances in the weeks to come. Many industry experts and racing enthusiasts are expecting him to make a significant impact in the fiercely competitive sprinting circuit this summer. Early indications from his recent gallop point to a horse that is on the road to reclaiming his prime form, and excitement is mounting as he prepares for what is likely to be an exhilarating and eventful campaign ahead.
