Despite just four runners contesting the unique Powerworx Greys race at New Plymouth, the ghostly grey competitors conspired to make it one of the most exciting finishes of the day.

Kiwi jockey James McDonald is assured of a ride in Saturday's GI Makfi Challenge Stakes at Hastings but he won't know his mount until Saturday morning.

O'Reilly's classic placegetter Thy capped an outstanding day for Waikato Stud when she recorded a first-up win at Caulfield on Saturday.

Owner trainer Richard Joostens saw his charge Bragato take his second victory of the season on Saturday when leading home a NZB trifecta in the G3 Thompson Handicap at Trentham.

Hawke's Bay trainer John Bary is enjoying a very successful spring with No Excuse Maggie leading home a quinella for her sire and a trifecta for NZ Bloodstock graduates in the Listed Matamata Cup.