Harlech Returns North to Lead Gerard’s Te Rapa Team

Pam Gerard has welcomed Harlech back to her Matamata stable after a productive campaign in the South Island. The seven-year-old gelding will lead her team at Te Rapa Racecourse this Saturday, bringing proven ability and good fitness to the event.

Harlech, a son of Darci Brahma, started his southern campaign with a win in the Listed Hazlett Stakes (1400m) at Wingatui. He then recorded a second placing in the Group 3 Canterbury Gold Cup (2000m), performing well despite less-than-ideal track conditions.

“He’s not a heavy tracker and didn’t enjoy the Cup at all,” Gerard said. “But his class and determination helped him get that result. He was struggling but managed to lift himself and finish second. That was a solid effort.”

With fewer racing opportunities left in the South Island and the synthetic track season starting, Gerard decided to bring Harlech back north. The gelding arrived in excellent condition and appeared far from ready for a break.

“We brought him back because the tracks were going synthetic down there, and that’s not suitable for him or me,” Gerard explained. “We thought he might go to the paddock, but when he came home, he looked so well that we decided to keep him going.”

Gerard believes Harlech can continue competing through the winter racing, as long as the track conditions suit him. The experienced horse has earned over $400,000 in prize money and shows a real desire to race.

Harlech will run in an open handicap race at Te Rapa Racecourse on Saturday. Gerard expects the familiar setting and likely better footing to help him perform well.

“He’s come through the trip home really well and has been working nicely,” she said. “He does best when he’s happy and comfortable, and right now, he’s doing very well.”

The upcoming meeting will also feature several other Gerard-trained horses, reflecting a stable in good order. Gerard is preparing for a busy winter racing with a group of runners showing strong form.

“We have a good team heading to Te Rapa Racecourse, and it’s great to have Harlech back to lead the group,” she said. “When he’s in good shape, he competes strongly at this level.”

Bringing Harlech back north gives Gerard more options over the coming months. Although he is capable over various distances, she plans to pick races carefully.

“We’ll take it race by race,” she said. “There are a few suitable options if the weather is good and the tracks aren’t too heavy. He’s earned the right to be placed carefully, and we want to give him the best chance.”

Now with 47 starts, five wins, and 13 placings, Harlech has been a dependable competitor for the stable over several seasons. His consistency and willingness have made him a reliable stakes performer.

“It’s rare for horses to stay competitive at this level for so long,” Gerard said. “He’s tough and honest, and still enjoys his work, that can’t be taught.”

As Te Rapa Racecourse prepares for another solid winter racing meeting, Harlech will be one of the main attractions. For Gerard, having a horse of his quality back home is a welcome boost and a reminder of the value of experienced performers.

“Having him back is a real lift for the team,” she said. “He’s popular around here and adds a lot of energy. Hopefully, we can reward his consistency with a good run on Saturday.”

With weather expected to be fair and Te Rapa Racecourse known for providing good surfaces, conditions look promising for Harlech’s return. Supporters will be keen to see if he can maintain his strong form in this next stage of his campaign.