Dratini is a colt with a rich pedigree and the looks to go with it.
The son of All Too Hard and the multiple
Group One winner Dorabella has also indicated he's inherited his share of the
family ability.
The covers will come off Dratini when he debuts in the Carrfields Livestock/Carrfields Primary Wool 1200m at Hawke's Bay on Thursday and trainer Fraser Auret expects a bold showing.
"He's a very forward sort of colt and 1200m will suit him," he said in reference to taking on the older horses, rather than running in the 800m juvenile event on the card.
"He's a beautiful animal who is owned in Hong Kong and we're very fortunate to have him."
Dratini is owned by Dynasty Racing, who are managed by New Zealand-based bloodstock agent Paul Beamish and have 10 horses with Auret.
"I've got a lot of time for this one and he's been very professional in everything he's done," Auret said.
"He's the type of horse that we'd like to head toward the Wanganui Guineas with if all the cards fall the right way."
The winner of his only trial, Dratini will be ridden by Johnathan Parkes, who will also guide the fortunes of the stable's well-bred Posh Porotene in the New Zealand Bloodstock Insurance Pearl Series Race (800m).
"She's a lovely filly and the 800m may be a bit sharp for her, but she's one that you can definitely follow in the new season," Auret said.
Posh Porotene is by Savabeel and a grand-daughter of the Gr.1 Levin Classic (1600m) winner Porotene Gem.
"I really liked her trial win at Waverley and she's improved since then," Auret said. – NZ Racing Desk.
