Gopana Targets Summer Cup

The excitement could start on Boxing Day with the Hawkes Racing team now likely to target the Group III Summer Cup (2400m) with their progressive staying mare Gopana after she scored her second consecutive win in theraces.com.au Handicap (2000m).

Gopana came from back in the field under the urgings of apprentice Josh Adams to overpower the Chris Waller-trained The Verminator in a driving finish.

"She can stay, that's what she can do," co-trainer Michael Hawkes said.

"She really wants to be a racehorse and she's a winner.

"She's come through today with flying colours, so if she comes through it ok the Summer Cup is her next target."

Story: Clinton Payne RaceNet

Photo: Sportpix