Xbox (NZ) Shows Versatility and Class in Waikato Guineas

Having previously won over 1100 and 1500 metres, classy three-year-old Xbox (NZ) (Niagara) passed his first stamina test with flying colours in Tuesday’s $100,000 Group 2 Warren Storm Lifebrokers Waikato Guineas (2000m) at Te Rapa.

The Graham Richardson and Gavin Parker-trained gelding, who cost $85,000 at the 2016 Ready to Run Sale, came from off the pace to challenge for the lead rounding the home turn. He made the lead early in the straight, then withstood the late challenge of fellow Ready to Run Sale graduate Mongolianconqueror (NZ) (Ocean Park) by a nose. Xbox was ridden to victory by Trudy Thornton.

“He’s a good horse and he deserved it,” Richardson said. “He worked up really well and he is the type of horse that can switch off in his races, he relaxes.

“He’s still green and learning and he got to the front a bit too soon. I thought the other one was going to roll him before my bloke fought back.”

Raced by Graham Wiggins, G Wiggins Partnership, Jamie Robinson, Craig Hemopo, Trish Dunell and Tui Colven, Xbox has now had eight starts for three wins, two placings and $102,150 in prizemoney.