- Historically the South Island meeting or two between the Grand National Festival and spring racing in September struggles for horse numbers.
- Whilst only 51 horses competed in seven races there were some notable performances.
- The highlight was undoubtable the debut runner MISS TAKE who blitzed the 1200 metres maiden for three-year-olds by 9½ lengths. Her ability was well known as she paid a microscopic $1.20 for the win and a ¾ share had transferred ownership the day before to prominent Australian owner Manoj Wanzare. Top rider Lisa Allpress steered the filly for Riccarton Park trainer Terri Rae.
- As they do every spring Te Akau Racing had located a stable of runners at Riccarton Park this year under the care of Hunter Durrant. They wasted no time getting to the winners stall. IRISH RED in the hands of Jason Laking was too good for the Rating 65 sprinters.
- Course specialist MEGALOMANIAC had is sixth start on the Polytrack in the Rating 75 sprint and took his record to three wins and two placings giving both trainer Andrew Carston and Lisa Allpress their second winners of the day.
- Carston had prepared HUNTER VILLAN to win the opening event for great sponsor Terry Lines of Vernon & Vazey Truck Parts.
