After a good return run at the end of November, Mark Twain is due to race again on Thursday at Wanganui, New Zealand for his second up quest over 2040m.
After showing some early talent in his trials and first win at only his second career start, Mark Twain quickly climbed up the grades and competed in higher rated races. After his Maiden win in December 2022, he went on to win a BM65 over 2100m two runs later against older horses, before finishing a slashing 4th in the Group 1 New Zealand Derby at his next start.
Trainers Roger James and Robert Wellwood took the opportunity to bring the son of Shocking over to Australia to compete in the Group 1 Australian Derby at Randwick. Unfortunately things didn’t work out to plan and the now 4yo finished 10th in what was a tough ask deep into his campaign.
“Things just didn’t go his way in the Derby, but he still tried very hard and considering it is still his first preparation he’s done very well. This was only his sixth career start and he’s come a long way and it’s still all ahead of him.” commented trainer Robert Wellwood after the ATC Derby.
Once back in New Zealand, Mark Twain enjoyed a well-deserved spell and has returned in excellent order for his second preparation. After a second placing in his only trial, the 4yo ran a good 4th first up at Otaki and will now step up to the 2040m journey at Wanganui on Thursday. See the full field and all race details here.
With the autumn quickly approaching, sights could well be set on Group-class staying features in Sydney as well as the Auckland Cup in NZ in March following Thursday’s run.
Best of luck to all connections on Thursday!
