Racing: Pick Me Up In Rio set to take a winter break

Kylie Williams will guide Pick Me Up In Rio's chances. Photo / Race Images

Pick Me Up In Rio will close out an encouraging first campaign at Riccarton today. The filly has made a bright start to her career and will head for a winter spell after the El Doute At Stud 2YO (1200m).

"This will be her last run, she's still developing and growing, and she'll go out for five weeks," said owner-trainer Kevin James.

Pick Me Up In Rio finished in the money in her first two starts before she collected black type at her most recent outing when she was third behind the northerners Secret Allure and Peaceful in the Listed Champagne Stakes (1200m).

"She's never been a problem, all she wants to do is run so she's been an easy horse to train," James said. "I'm pleased with her condition."

The only query he has with Pick Me Up in Rio is the heavy going in Christchurch, but instinct is telling him that the daughter of Captain Rio will cope.

"I don't work her on the grass much, I work her at home and on the beach, but my feeling is that she will handle it," James said.

The experienced Kylie Williams rode the filly last time out and will again take the reins.

James bred Pick Me Up In Rio and he has high hopes for an unraced juvenile filly, also by Captain Rio.

"She'll probably go to the trials at Rangiora next week, she might be as good as this one," he said.

- NZ Racing Desk