Trish Dunell
Triple Group One-winning mare Melody Belle will have a change of rider when she competes in the Gr.1 BCD Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa on February 9.
With the unavailability of regular riders Shafiq Rusof and Opie Bosson, Te Akau have engaged former stable apprentice Troy Harris to ride the daughter of Commands.
“With Opie Bosson suspended and Shafiq Rusof returned to Singapore, the management team had a fresh look at all options and we decided to engage Troy,” Fortuna syndicate manager John Galvin said.
“Troy has had issues with his weight over the years, but he is fine now and riding well and we are looking forward to having him aboard.”
Galvin is pleased to have engaged Harris and said he is hoping the partnership can add to their Group One tally after combining to win the New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) with Tell A Tale.