John and Karen Parsons are expecting early proof that Sniparinda has inherited his share of the family ability.
The Pins colt, who debuts in the Brackens Print 2YO at Oamaru today, is a half-bother to the Balcairn trainers' former stable star O'Cartier, who was the dual Group Three winner of16 races.
"He was a real favourite, although they are completely different types of horses," Karen Parsons said.
"O'Cartier wasn't a 2-year-old and this horse is more natural. He's got a lot of potential and a lovely temperament, we've got a big opinion of him."
Sniparinda has won his last two trials and is one of a host of winning chances at Oamaru for the husband and wife team.
The Kevin Hickman-bred and owned Paraketo will attempt to complete a hat-trick in the Glenmoa Farms Waitaki River Trophy after a last-start success on the course was preceded by a victory at Riccarton. "We're obviously pretty happy with him and he's trained on well," Parsons said.
Another strong chance for the stable is Urban, who carries the colours of Waikato Stud, in the De Geest Construction Maiden.
"She's got a lot of ability and we think she's got a very bright future," Parsons said.
The O'Reilly mare placed in one of her two starts in Victoria before joining the Parsons team and she has finished runner-up in all three of her southern starts.
Chris Johnson will be aboard both Urban and Paraketo while Gosen Jogoo will guide the fortunes of Sniparinda. Another stable apprentice, Krishna Mudhoo, will be hoping to open his winning account on Clem in the Under & Out Drilling Handicap.
"He's a mate of Gosen's from Mauritius and they are both wonderful kids," Parsons said. "They've both got great work ethics and we can't speak highly enough of them."
