Princess Rihanna (NZ) Moves into Karaka Million Contention

Princess Rihanna (NZ) (Showcasing) scored an impressive win in the $20,000 Courtesy Ford 2YO (1000m) at Otaki on Friday, taking a prominent position in the Order of Entry for the Karaka Million at Ellerslie on January 29.

The Lance O’Sullivan and Andrew Scott-trained filly made her debut in Friday’s race and got her career off to the perfect start, scoring by a length and three-quarters under rider Craig Grylls.

The victory earned the filly $12,500 in prize-money, moving her into equal sixth place on the Order of Entry alongside Global Thinking (So You Think).

Princess Rihanna is by Haunui Farm stallion Showcasing, who sired 2015 Karaka Million winner Hardline (NZ) and last year’s runner-up Showmeyamoneyhoney (NZ).

Wexford Stables purchased Princess Rihanna for $24,000 at the Select Sale.

The Order of Entry is still headed by Wellesley Stakes winner Gift Of Power (NZ) (Power), who has amassed $34,375 to date. Fellow Listed winner Talaria (NZ) (O’Reilly) is second with $31,250, followed by Gilhoolie (NZ) (Guillotine) with $14,250, Oscar Eight (NZ) (Showcasing) with $13,900 and Waldorf (NZ) (Highly Recommended) with $13,375.

The Group 2 Wakefield Challenge Stakes (1100m) at Trentham on December 3 carries prize-money of $100,000 and is sure to make a significant impact on the leader board.